Guinea-Bissau’s ruling military authorities have scheduled a constitutional reform referendum for August 30, five months before a presidential election planned as part of a Transition back to civilian rule.
The proposed amendments would change the country’s political system from a Parliamentary to a presidential model, allowing the President to appoint a Prime minister without holding a Parliamentary majority. The reforms also include reducing the number of lawmakers and introducing new eligibility rules that could affect smaller political parties.
The military, which seized power after disrupting the electoral process, has set new elections for December 6, which will be conducted under a new electoral framework that has not yet been fully published. The opposition has criticised the process, accusing the authorities of restricting political activity, limiting demonstrations and press freedom.
The political uncertainty has also fuelled speculation over a possible return of former President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, who was removed in the coup and is reportedly considering contesting the upcoming election.