On Sunday, Guinea-Bissau held a national referendum aimed at rewriting the country's constitution. The proposed changes seek to significantly expand the powers of the presidency. This vote is taking place under the administration of a military-led government that seized power following a coup.

The referendum is a central component of the current leadership's roadmap toward restoring civilian rule through future elections. However, the process has been marked by significant controversy. Critics and opposition groups have expressed concern that the constitutional amendments are designed to consolidate authority rather than foster a democratic transition. While the government maintains that these changes are necessary for stability, international observers and local political factions remain divided on whether the referendum serves as a genuine step toward democracy or a move to institutionalize military-backed influence.

The political climate remains tense as the nation navigates this transition. Because the country is currently under military rule, the legitimacy of the referendum process is a primary point of contention. Supporters of the measure argue that a stronger executive branch is required to manage the country's ongoing political instability, while opponents argue that the timing and nature of the changes undermine the democratic principles intended for the upcoming elections.