Guinea-Bissau to hold referendum on new constitution and presidential powers

Guinea-Bissau is set to hold a referendum this Sunday on a new constitution that would transition the nation from a parliamentary to a presidential system. The proposed changes, approved by the National Transitional Council following a military coup in November, would grant the president expanded powers, including the authority to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and members of the government, as well as the power to dissolve parliament.

The new electoral laws also introduce significant restrictions for the diaspora. While citizens living abroad retain the right to vote for the National Assembly, they will no longer be permitted to vote in presidential elections. To qualify for the presidency, voters must have maintained effective residence in the country for at least six months prior to the election. Additionally, the number of parliamentary seats will be reduced from 102 to 65, and electoral districts will be consolidated from 29 to 12.

The military-led junta maintains that these reforms are necessary to stabilize national institutions ahead of general elections scheduled for December 6, intended to restore civilian rule. However, the political climate remains tense. The PAIGC, the country’s historic independence party, has called for a boycott, citing restrictions on public freedoms, the suspension of political activities, and the banning of political groups from the campaign process.