Guinea-Bissau Approves First Constitutional Reform Since 1995

On January 13, 2026, Guinea-Bissau's National Transitional Council approved a significant constitutional reform, marking the first revision since 1995. This amendment strengthens the president's powers while maintaining the semi-presidential system. The president now serves as both head of state and head of government, leading executive actions and chairing the Council of Ministers. The prime minister operates under the president's authority, coordinating ministerial activities. Additionally, the president retains the power to appoint and dismiss the prime minister after consulting with parties in the National Assembly, which has been renamed from the National People's Assembly. This reform comes amid a one-year military-led transition following the November 2025 coup that ousted President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has engaged in discussions with Guinea-Bissau's transitional authorities, advocating for a swift return to constitutional order and expressing concerns over the proposed transition timeline.