Gabon lifts presidential term limits

 

 

 

Gabon has adopted a new constitution that would let President Ali Bongo remain in power indefinitely.

The National Assembly voted overwhelmingly in favour of the new legislation which allows the unlimited renewal of the presidential seven-year term.

The president also will be immune from prosecution during and after his time in office.

The opposition called it an attempt to turn Gabon into a monarchy.

Previously, Gabon had a limit of two seven-year presidential terms.

Mr Bongo took office in 2009, after his father, Omar Bongo, who ruled the oil-rich state for 42 years, died.

The president has 25 days to approve the National Assembly’s decision.