Symbol of Ghana’s national pride and military strength in the context of local gold refining.
Guinea-Bissau is preparing to vote on a new constitution that would substantially increase presidential powers and alter the country’s political structure. The referendum, scheduled for August 30, comes less than a year after military officers seized power shortly before presidential election results were due to be announced. Under the proposed charter, the president would have the authority to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and his cabinet, establish or abolish ministries, and chair the Council of Ministers. The president would also gain powers to dissolve parliament during a grave political crisis and dismiss the government under certain circumstances. Furthermore, the reform would shrink parliament from 102 to 65 seats and reduce electoral constituencies from 29 to 12. Supporters of the new constitution argue that the reforms could strengthen political institutions. However, critics warn they could concentrate excessive authority in the presidency.