Guinea-Bissau is set to hold a constitutional referendum on the 30th of August, in a vote that could give the president more powers under a proposed new system of government.
According to reports, the transitional authorities want to move from a parliamentary system to a presidential one, which would allow the head of state to appoint the prime minister and members of government, as well as dissolve parliament. The referendum comes ahead of planned presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for the 6th of December.
The transitional government says the proposal has already received a favourable opinion from the Supreme Court, and the referendum question will ask citizens whether they agree to the new constitution approved by the National Transition Council. If approved, the changes would significantly strengthen the powers of the presidency and reshape the country’s political system.
The move is likely to draw close attention both inside and outside the country, as Guinea-Bissau continues its transition after the coup that brought the current authorities to power. Supporters argue the changes could bring clarity and stronger executive authority, while critics may see them as another step toward concentrating power at the top.
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