The national dialogue is coming to an end in Gabon. These major meetings, organized by the authorities after the coup d’état of August 30, aimed to propose a series of in-depth reforms, on the political, economic and social levels. After almost a month of work, profound reforms, particularly political ones, were proposed.
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With our special correspondent in Libreville, Sébastien Nemeth
The more than 650 participants gathered this Saturday, April 27, 2024 in Libreville requested that the presidential system be enshrined in the Constitution of Gabon. A fundamental text more difficult to reform with safeguards to avoid tinkering.
Suspension of political parties requested
Major upheaval announced among political parties with the suspension of all training, until the implementation of new, stricter rules, to be able to create a movement. The former ruling party, the Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG), is particularly targeted since it is asked to make all its executives ineligible for three years.
The duration of the transition is maintained at two years, with an additional twelve months in the event of force majeure.
Strong recommendations also concern sovereignty and immigration with the establishment of a strict policy favoring the protection of the interests of the Gabonese. High administrative functions would also be reserved for nationals, while a review of the conditions for acquiring citizenship is also requested. Finally, the panelists called for an audit of all cooperation agreements.
The academic Flavien Enongoué was in the subcommittee devoted to questions of sovereignty. For him, this collective work was essential: “ It is a moment of refoundation which must give rise to reflection on our place in the concert of nations. There are entire areas of our sovereignty, notably monetary, defense and security issues, which have been extensively addressed. These are questions that run through Gabonese society. Now, the technical problems must be left to those who have the expertise. »
A desire to end dependence on oil
Other recommendations emerged on economic and social issues. The participants want to free Gabon from its dependence on oil. They are asking for a new industrial policy, favoring mines and wood, promoting local production and for the country to produce its own food.
Priority will be given to national actors, with the promotion of Gabonese SMEs in public procurement, the nationalization of subcontracting, etc. On the social side, a proactive policy of professional training, autonomy of the university budget, increase in the health budget are also among the main measures.
For the moment, these are recommendations. The final report will be submitted on Tuesday to the head of state, Brice Clothaire Oligui Nguema. It is up to the authorities to implement them.
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