Kathmandu— A referendum in Guinea-Bissau has approved a new constitution that will significantly expand presidential powers. The National Electoral Commission announced on Tuesday that 70 percent of voters cast their ballots in favor of the changes, with a turnout rate of nearly 60 percent. The referendum was proposed by the military government which seized power in a coup last November and is aimed at stabilizing key state institutions ahead of general elections scheduled for December.

Key Changes to Presidential Powers

Under the new rules, the president will have the authority to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet members. This change significantly weakens the country’s power-sharing system by centralizing executive powers in the presidency. Additionally, the president can create and abolish ministries and dissolve parliament under certain conditions.

Criticism from Opposition

The referendum has been denounced by the main opposition party, PAIGC, and civil society groups who argue that it threatens Guinea-Bissau’s transition back to democracy. Critics accuse the military government of attempting to concentrate power ahead of the December elections, allowing current rulers to reshape the political system in their favor.

Turnout and International Observations

Despite the reported turnout rate of nearly 60 percent, international news agencies noted that polling stations were largely empty. PAIGC had called on people to boycott the referendum, leading to questions about the legitimacy of the voting process.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.