Guinea-Bissau referendum approves new constitution that expands president's powers
The sweeping reforms come in the wake of last year's coup and ahead of a proposed return to civilian rule.
Voters in Guinea-Bissau have approved a new constitution that significantly increases presidential authority ahead of upcoming elections. The military-led referendum expanded the president's ability to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet, create or abolish ministries, and dissolve parliament during a political crisis.
The main opposition party boycotted the vote, citing inadequate safeguards and threatening the country's democratic transition. One of the world's poorest nations, Guinea-Bissau has seen multiple coup attempts since gaining independence from Portugal in 1974. The UN labels it a "narco-state" due to its drug trafficking. The referendum saw 70% of voters support the changes, with 30% opposing.
The new constitution solidifies the president's power over the government while maintaining a five-year term limit. However, the opposition fears the changes consolidate too much executive authority. The military takeover followed a disputed election, with the junta claiming it intervened to prevent a plot by politicians with drug baron support.
The December elections will determine if the military returns power to civilians and whether the expanded presidential powers reshape Guinea-Bissau's political landscape.
Written by urgent.news from BBC World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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