Guinea-Bissau to Vote on Constitution Expanding Presidential Power
On August 30, Guinea-Bissau voters will decide whether a new charter that boosts presidential authority and reshapes the electoral system is adopted.
Guinea-Bissau is scheduled to hold a referendum on August 30 to approve a constitution that would markedly increase the president's executive powers and overhaul the country's electoral framework. The vote comes nine months after a November 2025 coup that placed General Horta Inta-A Na Man in charge of a military-led transition and three months before the December 6 national elections. Proponents argue the changes will provide clear authority lines and reduce the historic rivalry between presidents, prime ministers and parliament, whereas critics fear the reforms will weaken legislative checks and were crafted without inclusive consultation.
The opposition African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) has rejected the draft and urged a boycott. If passed, the new charter will shrink parliament, reduce constituencies, impose residency and financial requirements on presidential candidates, and create a Constitutional Court, shaping the political landscape for the incoming elected government.
Why it matters
The vote will determine how much power the next elected president of Guinea-Bissau can wield, influencing the country's democratic trajectory.
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