Guinea-Bissau Votes on Constitution Expanding Presidential Powers

Citizens of Guinea-Bissau voted on August 30 in a referendum to approve a new constitution that would transition the country from a parliamentary to a presidential system. The proposed reforms would grant the head of state the authority to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet, create or abolish ministries, and dissolve parliament. Additionally, the charter would reduce parliament from 102 to 65 seats and introduce stricter residency and financial requirements for presidential candidates.

General Horta Inta-A Na Man, the transitional president who seized power in a November 2025 military coup, argued the changes are necessary to stabilize institutions and end the frequent political deadlocks that characterized previous administrations. He stated the goal is to ensure future election winners can complete their mandates without hindrance. General Tomas Djassi further defended the revisions, claiming they clarify the president's role as a national symbol to avoid conflict with the prime minister.

Opposition groups, led by the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde, urged a boycott of the vote. Critics and the Human Rights League of Guinea-Bissau argued the process lacks legitimacy and concentrates excessive power in a single individual. They noted the referendum occurred amid restricted public freedoms, the suspension of the Constitutional Court, and the detention of opposition leader Domingos Simões Pereira.

While some reports indicated low turnout and citizen discontent in the capital, the National Election Commission reported a voter turnout exceeding 55 percent and stated the poll occurred without major incidents. Provisional results are expected on Tuesday, establishing the legal framework for general elections scheduled for December 6.