### Gabon: Towards an Electoral Revolution? Analysis of the Draft Electoral Code Under Discussion
The political climate in Gabon is intensifying. In the midst of the turmoil, an extraordinary session of Parliament was convened, calling to order the deputies who were taking their summer quarters. The objective: to examine a draft electoral code, the keystone of the post-coup democratic process, initiated by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema. This dynamic raises questions about the transparency, fairness and integrity of the electoral system, but also about the role of institutions and the place that the people want to take in this transition.
### Historical and Political Context
To better understand the importance of this draft electoral code, it is necessary to contextualize. Gabon, with a history marked by coups d’état and contested elections, is plagued by political uncertainties. The military transition, which began after the overthrow of Ali Bongo in August 2023, requires a rapid and significant change in the country’s governance.
### Analysis of the Draft Electoral Code
The draft electoral code, with a scope of 383 articles, does not limit itself to reforming the candidacy procedures. It proposes many significant adjustments: the deposit for presidential candidates increases from 10 to 30 million CFA francs, while that for deputy candidates increases to one million, compared to 350,000 previously. These increases are based on concerns about accessibility for potential candidates, particularly those from less privileged social classes. In this regard, it is essential to consider the implications of such an approach in the context of an inclusive democracy.
### Repositioning of Standards in the Sustainable Election Landscape
In addition to increasing deposits, the code provides that political parties must invest at least 30% of women and 20% of young people on their candidate lists. This change is a notable step forward for the representation of women and young people in governing bodies, but also raises the question of the effective application of these provisions. The balance between parity and competence could become a challenge if political parties simply prioritize quotas over the quality of candidates.
### The Creation of a National Commission for the Organization of Elections
Another highlight of this project is the creation of a National Commission for the Organization and Coordination of Elections, as well as a control and supervision authority. Although this regulatory framework sounds like a potential step forward, the real test lies in the architecture of these institutions and their independence from the Ministry of the Interior, the real organizer of the elections. Public confidence in this new entity will be crucial; the escape from the military strictness currently in place remains to be seen.
### Towards an Engaged Electorate?
The tight deadlines set by the military government add significant pressure on parliamentarians and raise concerns about rushed decision-making. In a changing democracy, it is essential that the electoral process is not only effective, but that it is accompanied by a broad civic education campaign. Mobilizing the population around electoral issues could play a vital role. Civic engagement is a powerful counterweight to potential abuses by incumbents.
### Regional Comparisons: Gabon Put to the Test of History
Compared with its neighbors such as Senegal or Ghana, which have also experienced periods of turmoil linked to political transitions, Gabon must face the need to build not only viable institutions, but also a genuine democratic substratum. Past failures must serve as a lesson, avoiding a repetition of cycles of violence and instability.
### Conclusion: A Historic Opportunity?
The draft electoral code under discussion offers Gabon a historic opportunity to reinvent itself politically. However, this will depend on the willingness of leaders to truly embrace change, while engaging civil society and political actors in constructive dialogue. The balance between the rigor of a military framework and the aspiration for democratization could determine not only Gabon’s democratic future, but also its status as a model of stability in an often troubled region.
In short, monitoring the parliamentary debates and decisions taken in the coming days will be crucial. Gabon is at a crossroads; it is up to its people to choose the path to true democracy or to sink back into instability. The eyes of the world are on Libreville. The question remains: will a positive page of history be written this time?