Guinea-Bissau holds referendum to expand presidential powers

Voters in Guinea‑Bissau went to the polls on Sunday to decide a referendum that would grant the interim president expanded powers ahead of scheduled elections intended to restore civilian rule. The vote follows a military coup that seized control of the capital earlier this year, placing the armed forces in charge of a transitional government tasked with organizing a return to democratic governance. The proposed constitutional amendment would allow the president to appoint key officials, dissolve parliament and oversee the electoral timetable, measures presented by the junta as necessary to ensure a stable handover.

The referendum has been widely criticized by opposition parties and international observers, who argue that concentrating authority in the presidency could entrench military influence and undermine the fairness of the upcoming elections. Regional bodies have called for transparency and adherence to democratic standards, while some civil‑society groups have warned of potential voter intimidation. As the results are tallied, the outcome will determine whether Guinea‑Bissau proceeds with a strengthened executive as it navigates the delicate transition back to civilian government.