Guinea-Bissau holds referendum on presidential powers ahead of general election
Guinea-Bissau held a referendum on Sunday to decide on constitutional changes that would grant the president more powers. Ballot counting began after polls closed at 5 pm local time, with provisional results expected on Tuesday. The Executive Secretary of the National Electoral Commission, Idrissa Djalo, reported a turnout exceeding 55% and stated that voting occurred without incidents that would compromise the credibility of the vote. This referendum follows a military coup less than 10 months ago in the West African nation. The proposed changes aim to transition the country from a parliamentary to a presidential system, allowing the Head of State to appoint and dismiss the Prime Minister and government members, and to dissolve parliament. The junta argues these changes will stabilize institutions before new presidential and parliamentary elections, scheduled for December 6, to restore civilian rule. However, the opposition called for a boycott, citing restrictions on public freedoms. Junta leader and transitional president Gen. Horta N鈥橳am encouraged a massive turnout, emphasizing the goal of ensuring future presidents can complete their mandates without hindrance. The general is barred from running in the upcoming elections under the transitional charter. Guinea-Bissau has a history of political instability, with five coups and several attempted coups since 1974. Some voters expressed hope that the new constitution would bring stability and positive changes to the country.
