Guinea-Bissau’s military-led government has secured approval for a new constitution that dramatically strengthens the presidency, according to provisional results from Sunday’s referendum.
With nearly 60% voter turnout, 70% backed the reforms, which allow the president to appoint and dismiss prime ministers, create or abolish ministries, and dissolve parliament during grave political crises. The five-year presidential term and two-term limit remain unchanged.
The military junta, which seized power in November 2025 after a disputed election, argues the changes will end recurring power struggles between presidents and prime ministers that have long destabilized the semi-presidential system.
The constitution also reduces parliament from 102 to 65 seats and cuts electoral constituencies from 29 to 12.
However, the main opposition PAIGC party boycotted the vote, warning of excessive power concentration.
The military has pledged December elections to restore civilian rule. Yet critics question the junta’s legitimacy, pointing to its seizure of power in what Ejime called a « very strange coup. »
Guinea-Bissau, a West African nation plagued by at least nine coups since 1974, faces a critical test of whether its military leaders will honor their transition pledge ; and whether expanded presidential powers will stabilize or further fracture its fragile democracy.
