Guinea-Bissau Voters Approve New Constitution Expanding Presidential Power

Voters in Guinea-Bissau have approved a new constitution that replaces the current semi-parliamentary regime with a strong presidential system. The National Electoral Commission confirmed on Tuesday that the "Yes" camp won with 70 percent of the vote, while the "No" camp received 30 percent. Voter turnout was reported to be over 50 percent, with one source estimating it at over 55 percent, representing approximately 544,060 people.

The new charter significantly expands the powers of the president, who will now have the authority to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and government ministers, as well as the power to dissolve parliament. Additionally, the number of seats in parliament will be reduced from 102 to 65, and electoral constituencies will be cut from 29 to 12. A new residency requirement mandates that presidential candidates must have lived continuously in the country for at least five years before the vote.

This referendum follows a military coup in November 2025, which occurred after a disputed presidential election. A transitional ruling council, led by General Horta Inta-A Na Man, currently governs the state. Transitional authorities argue that the constitutional reforms are necessary to bring stability to the impoverished nation and prepare for the return to civilian rule during elections scheduled for December 6.

Opposition groups, including the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), called the referendum a democratic farce and urged a boycott. Critics argue the vote has no legal basis because it was organized by institutions created after the military coup. Some observers and human rights advocates express concern that the new system creates an excessive concentration of power and weakens the rule of law by removing constitutional oversight.

Center outlets framed the event as a procedural step toward a new regime and a return to civilian rule. Center-left coverage emphasized the potential for the new constitution to undermine democracy and highlighted the concerns of opposition leaders.