European UnionGuinea-Bissau's military-led transitional government is set to hold a referendum on a new constitution that would grant the president greater authority, ahead of planned general elections aimed at restoring civilian rule. The proposed constitution was drafted by unelected bodies formed after a November coup. Opposition groups, including the main party PAIGC, argue the referendum is a tactic to legitimize the military-backed government and accuse authorities of suppressing dissent by banning 'no' campaigns and restricting freedoms. Civil society and opposition leaders describe the process as a farce, claiming it continues the coup's legacy. Supporters of the constitution, including transitional council members, assert it addresses past instability and ensures political stability through centralized executive power.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the referendum as a legitimate effort to stabilize the country, emphasizing the transitional authorities' claims of addressing instability and ensuring continuity. It highlights the military's role in governance and portrays the new constitution as a necessary reform. While it is,
