Guinea-Bissau junta to hold constitutional referendum August 30

Guinea-Bissau is set to hold a referendum on constitutional reform on August 30, 2026, a move that could significantly alter the nation's governance structure. The decree for the referendum was published by the transitional president, General Horta Ntam, approximately ten months after the military seized power in November 2025.

The proposed constitutional amendment seeks to transition the country from a parliamentary system to a presidential one. If approved, this change would grant the president enhanced authority, including the power to appoint the prime minister and government members, as well as the ability to dissolve parliament.

The military junta, which took control of the West African nation, has unanimously backed the constitutional amendment. This development follows a coup that overthrew the head of state and suspended the electoral process shortly after a presidential election. The junta has stated that General Horta N’Tam will not be eligible to run for president, according to a December 2025 announcement.

New presidential and parliamentary elections are scheduled for December 6, 2026, with the aim of restoring civilian rule. However, the public will first have their say on the proposed constitutional changes through the upcoming referendum. Guinea-Bissau has a history of political instability, having experienced five military takeovers and numerous attempted coups since gaining independence from Portugal in 1974.

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Considering the proposal for a national referendum for which the Supreme Court has issued a favourable opinion, the transitional president, General Horta N’Tam, has set (the date) for August 30, 2026.