Guinea — Bissau’s Opposition Calls for Referendum Boycott Amidst Controversy BODY: Guinea-Bissau’s African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) has announced a boycott of the upcoming constitutional referendum, scheduled for August 30.
The referendum seeks to validate a new Constitution approved by the National Transitional Council following a military coup in November.
The PAIGC’s decision to boycott stems from allegations of exclusion from the referendum process and fears of electoral manipulation. Critics argue the proposed Constitution could shift power from the parliamentary system to the presidency, allowing the president to appoint the prime minister and dissolve parliament. Guinea-Bissau, a country with a history of political instability and corruption, is currently experiencing a critical political moment.
The PAIGC asserts that the proposed changes threaten civil liberties and further consolidate the President’s power. Despite the PAIGC’s boycott, the National Transitional Council and military government maintain that the referendum is essential for democratic consolidation and stability. They argue that the new Constitution is a step towards preventing future coups and establishing a stable political framework.
As Guinea — Bissau prepares for the referendum, regional bodies such as the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are closely monitoring the situation, calling for a swift restoration of constitutional order and expressing concerns about the proposed Constitution and the political transition process.
The opposition’s boycott raises questions about the referendum’s credibility and inclusivity.
As the country approaches the vote, the response of both domestic and international observers will be crucial in determining Guinea — Bissau’s political future.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
