Guinea-Bissau’s Transitional Parliament Approves First Constitutional Revision in Three Decades

Guinea-Bissau’s Transitional Parliament has adopted a revised draft of the country’s constitution, marking the first constitutional overhaul since the last amendment in 1995.
The revised text, approved on Tuesday, reshapes the balance of power within the state by reinforcing the authority of the President of the Republic while preserving the country’s semi-presidential system of governance.

Under the new framework, the government remains politically accountable to both the President and the legislature, now officially renamed the National Assembly. Parliament retains key oversight tools, including the ability to pass motions of confidence or censure, ensuring continued legislative scrutiny of the executive.

The revision further clarifies the relationship between state institutions, granting the President expanded authority over the executive branch. The Head of State retains the power to appoint and dismiss the Prime Minister after consultations with political parties represented in the National Assembly, as well as the constitutional right to dissolve the legislature under specified conditions outlined in Article 79.

While presidential powers are strengthened, the National Assembly continues to exercise legislative authority and oversight responsibilities, including approving the government’s programme and conducting mandatory hearings with cabinet ministers.

The constitutional changes are taking place against a highly sensitive political backdrop. Guinea-Bissau has been under the control of a military high command since November 27, following the ousting of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. The takeover occurred just one day before the expected announcement of results from the presidential election held on November 23, effectively bringing the electoral process to an abrupt end.

The revised constitution maintains the country’s dual-executive structure but significantly elevates the President’s role. The President now serves simultaneously as Head of State and Head of Government, leads the executive branch, chairs the Council of Ministers and oversees the actions of the Prime Minister, who operates under presidential authority.

Guinea-Bissau’s constitution has undergone previous revisions in 1984, 1991 and 1995. The latest amendment represents the most substantial institutional restructuring in nearly 30 years, with implications for the country’s political stability and governance framework.