Voters in Guinea-Bissau are casting ballots in a constitutional referendum that could significantly expand the powers of the president, as the military-ruled West African nation prepares for elections intended to restore civilian government.
The referendum, held Sunday, asks voters whether to approve a new constitution drafted and approved by the country’s transitional authorities. If passed, the changes would move Guinea-Bissau from a parliamentary system toward a presidential system, giving the head of state greater control over the government.
Under the proposed constitution, the president would have the authority to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and members of government, as well as dissolve Parliament. The number of seats in the National People’s Assembly would also be reduced from 102 to 65. Authorities argue that the changes would simplify governance and reduce repeated conflicts between the president and prime minister.
The referendum comes less than a year after the military seized power following a disputed presidential election. The coup interrupted the country’s electoral process and placed Guinea-Bissau under transitional military leadership. General Horta Inta-A-Na Man was subsequently appointed transitional president.
The military government says the constitutional changes are intended to create greater institutional stability before presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for December 6, 2026. The transitional president is barred from contesting those elections under the transitional arrangements.
However, opposition groups have urged voters to boycott the referendum, arguing that the proposed constitution would weaken Parliament and the prime minister while concentrating too much authority in the presidency. Critics have also questioned the legitimacy of allowing a military-appointed transitional body to oversee major constitutional changes.
Turnout appeared low at several polling stations, according to reports, with heavy security deployed at strategic locations in the capital, Bissau. Voting is scheduled to close at 5 p.m. GMT, while the first provisional results are expected from Tuesday.
The referendum is being closely watched because Guinea-Bissau has a long history of political instability. Since gaining independence from Portugal, the country has experienced multiple coups and attempted coups, making the balance between executive authority and democratic institutions a particularly sensitive issue.
With the December elections approaching, the outcome of the referendum could shape Guinea-Bissau’s political system and influence the country’s transition from military rule back to elected civilian government.
Swifteradio.com
