• 70% of voters approved a new constitution expanding presidential powers.
• The military government organized the referendum amid calls for boycott from opposition parties.
• Major changes include the president's ability to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and dissolve parliament.

A recent referendum in Guinea-Bissau has resulted in a significant constitutional change, with 70 percent of voters supporting reforms that expand presidential powers. This outcome was reported by the National Electoral Commission following a vote held just months before the upcoming general elections aimed at restoring civilian governance. Voter turnout was reported at nearly 60 percent, although international observers noted sporadic attendance at polling stations, raising questions about the election's legitimacy, according to Al Jazeera and BBC.

The military government, which seized power in November 2025 following a controversial election, claims these constitutional changes are necessary to stabilize political institutions before the anticipated December elections. The new rules enable the president to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet, dissolve parliament, and create or abolish ministries during significant political crises. Critics, including the main opposition party PAIGC, argue this shift undermines democracy and further concentrates power in the presidency, as highlighted by multiple sources including Africa News and BBC.

The opposition PAIGC had previously called for a boycott of the referendum, citing fears that it would jeopardize the transition back to a democratic governance structure. Critics emphasize that the changes could allow the junta to permanently entrench its control over the political system, reflecting broader trends observed across the region, where leaders have amended constitutions to extend their tenure and expand their power, as noted by Al Jazeera and Africa News.

Significantly, the new constitution will also reduce the number of parliamentary seats from 102 to 65 and decrease electoral constituencies from 29 to 12. While the military government frames these changes as essential for restoring political stability, many remain skeptical about their genuine commitment to transitioning back to civilian rule, echoing concerns raised by PAIGC leaders and various civil society groups about the electoral process’s credibility, according to BBC.