The 676 participants of the Inclusive National Dialogue (DNI) delved into substantive discussions on Monday, April 8th. Despite initial logistical challenges, the commission’s work began in earnest, with each committee and sub-committee meticulously examining issues across sectors to diagnose problems and propose lasting solutions for Gabon’s post-transitional period.
Our correspondent in Libreville, Yves-Laurent Goma, describes a focused atmosphere across all working spaces. Sylvain Mayabith, representing the National Organization of Oil Workers, participates in the sub-committee addressing labor laws: “We aim to end employment precariousness, halt the practice of short-term contracts, and empower labor inspectors to enforce and uphold the labor code.”
Joachim Pambo Mbatchi, a former presidential candidate, serves in the public works commission and asserts, “Gabon is a country in need of reconstruction. We must prioritize the construction of roads nationwide to ensure no Gabonese locality remains isolated from the rest of the world.”
In the late afternoon, Archbishop of Libreville, Monsignor Jean Patrick Iba-ba, the Dialogue’s President, along with members of his bureau, toured the commissions to ensure the smooth initiation of proceedings. In the education sub-committee, Célestin Boundzanga emphasizes, “Education is pivotal for national renewal, and we are fully committed to this task.”
The first day primarily focused on establishing work methodologies, with lingering logistical issues, notably concerning badge distribution, persisting until the day’s end.