RismadarVoice Reporters, August 31, 2026
Vote counting has begun in Guinea-Bissau after citizens participated in a constitutional referendum aimed at restructuring the country’s political system and increasing the powers of the presidency.
The referendum, held on Sunday, comes less than 10 months after the military seized power in a coup and ahead of planned presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for December 6.
The National Electoral Commission said voter turnout exceeded 55 per cent and that the process was conducted without incidents that could undermine the credibility of the vote.
Commission executive secretary Idrissa Djalo said final results are expected on Tuesday.
The proposed constitution would change Guinea-Bissau’s system of government from a parliamentary model to a presidential system, giving the head of state greater authority over government appointments and national decision-making.
Under the proposed reforms, the president would have the power to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and members of government, as well as dissolve parliament.
Voters were asked to approve or reject the question: “Do you agree with the entry into force of the new constitution approved by the National Transitional Council?”
Military Government Defends Reform
The transitional authorities said the constitutional changes are designed to create political stability and prevent future disruptions after years of power struggles between presidents and prime ministers.
Transitional President General Horta Inta-A Na Man said the reforms would allow future elected leaders to complete their mandates without political interference.
“What we want after this referendum is to allow whoever wins the elections to see out their mandate without hindrance,” Inta-A Na Man said.
However, under the transitional charter currently in place, the military leader is barred from contesting future elections.
Background of Political Crisis
The referendum follows years of political instability in Guinea-Bissau, a country that has experienced repeated military interventions and struggles between political institutions.
The crisis intensified after the November 2025 presidential election, when rival candidates claimed victory and accused each other of electoral interference.
The military takeover occurred one day later, with the armed forces claiming control of key government institutions.
Since then, military authorities have overseen a transition period while promising to restore civilian rule through elections.
Political Future Remains Under Watch
The outcome of the referendum is expected to shape Guinea-Bissau’s political structure ahead of the December elections.
Supporters of the reforms argue that a stronger presidency could reduce political deadlock, while critics have raised concerns about concentrating more power in the hands of the executive.
The final referendum results will determine whether the proposed constitutional changes move forward before the country returns to civilian rule.
