Vote counting underway in Guinea-Bissau referendum that could expand presidential powers

Guinea-Bissau voters went to the polls on Sunday in a referendum aimed at expanding presidential powers, marking a pivotal moment in the West African nation’s ongoing political transition. The ballot, which asks citizens whether they support the adoption of a new constitution, is part of efforts by the military-led government to consolidate authority before planned general elections in December. This move comes less than 10 months after the army seized control in a coup that overturned the previous administration and suspended democratic processes. Polling stations opened at 0700 GMT, though voter turnout began slowly in some areas due to a heavy early morning rainstorm. Security measures were heightened throughout the capital, with members of the national guard and police deployed at key locations to ensure order. Voting concludes at 1700 GMT, with preliminary results expected to be released on Tuesday. The referendum represents a critical step toward restoring civilian governance, although tensions remain high amid concerns over restricted civil liberties and political repression. The proposed constitutional amendment would shift Guinea-Bissau from a parliamentary to a presidential system, granting the president broader authority to appoint and dismiss officials, dissolve parliament, and manage the executive branch directly. This change aims to streamline governance and reduce the influence of coalition politics, which have historically contributed to instability. Under the new framework, the president would hold greater control over the government, potentially reducing the need for complex power-sharing arrangements that have plagued the country. Supporters of the reform argue that the new constitution will bring much-needed stability to a nation that has endured frequent upheaval. Shopkeeper Halimatou Traore expressed hope that the changes could lead to improved economic conditions, noting the negative impact of past crises on her income. Similarly, Braima Seidy, a 76-year-old veteran of the country’s independence struggle, voiced confidence that the new system could help restore peace and order. However, the opposition has strongly criticized the referendum, urging voters to boycott the process. They accuse the military regime of undermining democratic principles and restricting freedom of expression. The political environment remains volatile, with fears that the referendum could further entrench authoritarian practices rather than pave the way for genuine democratic renewal. The current junta, which took power in November 2023, has already implemented several reforms aimed at centralizing control. It appointed General Horta N’Tam as transitional president, who is barred from seeking elected office under the transitional charter. The military takeover followed the ousting of former President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, whose government was itself destabilized by internal conflict and accusations of attempting to stage a coup. Embalo had previously dissolved the opposition-controlled legislature and governed by decree until his removal by the armed forces. Guinea-Bissau, one of Africa’s poorest nations, has a long history of political instability, having experienced five coups and numerous attempted takeovers since 1974. Its current situation mirrors trends observed in other African states, such as Zimbabwe and Chad, where constitutional amendments have been used to extend executive power and alter electoral rules. These changes often reflect a broader pattern of consolidating authority in times of crisis, raising questions about the sustainability of democratic institutions in the region. As the referendum unfolds, the outcome will likely shape the trajectory of Guinea-Bissau’s political future. Whether the new constitution leads to lasting stability or deepens divisions remains uncertain, but its passage would represent a significant shift in the country’s governance model. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how the military-led government navigates the challenges of transitioning back to civilian rule.