Guinea-Bissau voters have approved a new constitution that significantly expands presidential powers, with the National Electoral Commission reporting 70% support in the country's first constitutional amendment in more than three decades.
Key facts
- The National Electoral Commission says 70% of voters backed the changes.
- The new constitution significantly expands presidential powers.
- Changes include fewer parliamentary seats and new rules on presidential candidates.
- The vote comes ahead of elections due in December.
- It is the country's first constitutional amendment since revisions ended the one-party socialist state more than three decades ago.
Voters in Guinea-Bissau have approved a new constitution that significantly expands presidential powers, according to provisional results reported by international media. The National Electoral Commission said 70 percent of voters cast their ballots in favour of the changes.
The Guardian reported that the reforms represent the tiny west African state’s first constitutional amendment since revisions that ended the one-party socialist state more than three decades ago. The vote comes ahead of elections due in December.
Among the changes are fewer seats in parliament and new rules on presidential candidates, according to the Guardian. The measures collectively expand the powers held by the president.
The BBC reported that the sweeping reforms come in the wake of last year’s coup and ahead of a proposed return to civilian rule.
Al Jazeera and other outlets reported the 70 percent approval figure from the National Electoral Commission as provisional results were announced. The referendum sets the stage for the elections scheduled for December.
Why it matters
Constitutional changes that expand presidential powers can reshape the balance of power in a country with a history of political instability. Coming after last year's coup and ahead of December elections, the vote is a key moment in Guinea-Bissau's proposed return to civilian rule.
Frequently asked questions
What did Guinea-Bissau voters approve?
Voters approved a new constitution that significantly expands presidential powers. According to provisional results, 70% of voters backed the changes, which include fewer parliamentary seats and new rules on presidential candidates.
When are elections scheduled?
Elections are due in December, following the referendum, according to the Guardian.
Why is this constitutional change significant?
According to the Guardian, it is the country's first constitutional amendment since revisions that ended the one-party socialist state more than three decades ago. The BBC notes the reforms follow last year's coup and a proposed return to civilian rule.