Vote count starts in Guinea-Bissau referendum on strengthening presidency

Guinea-Bissau is holding a referendum on a new constitution that would significantly increase presidential powers. Military leaders, who seized power in a coup ten months ago, state the referendum aims to stabilize future civilian governments before upcoming elections on December 6th. Citizens voted "yes" or "no" on a constitution that would shift the country from a parliamentary to a presidential system, allowing the head of state to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and government, and dissolve parliament. The National Electoral Commission reported turnout exceeded 55 percent and the vote proceeded without incident. Results are expected on Tuesday.

Guinea-Bissau is holding a referendum on Sunday to decide whether to grant expanded presidential powers ahead of the December general election. The vote follows a military coup in November of the previous year. If approved, the proposed constitution, drafted by the National Transitional Council, would increase presidential authority and reduce the number of parliamentary seats. Authorities claim these changes will streamline governance and resolve conflicts between the president and prime minister. However, opposition groups are urging a boycott, arguing the referendum consolidates power within the military government and risks political instability. Citizens express mixed views, with some questioning the legitimacy of the transitional government to amend the constitution and others unfamiliar with its contents.

Guinea-Bissau is holding a referendum on August 30 to vote on a new constitution that would significantly strengthen the presidency. The proposed changes, approved by the National Transitional Council following a November 2025 military coup, would shift the country from a semi-presidential to a more presidential system, granting the president greater executive authority. Critics argue this concentrates too much power, while supporters believe it will reduce political instability. The new constitution would also reshape parliament and introduce new requirements for presidential candidates. The referendum's outcome will determine the framework for the country's return to elected government in the December 6 elections.