GUINEA-BISSAU: ‘It’s not enough to ask citizens to say yes or no: public debate must be guaranteed’

Civil society advocates respect for the constitution, democratic legality, the rule of law and an inclusive, participatory and transparent constitutional revision process. 

For civil society, the constitution does not belong to any government, parliament, president, or transitional authority. The constitution belongs to the people, because sovereignty resides with them. Citizens have the right to know the text, understand the proposed amendments and assess their consequences for their rights, institutions and the balance of powers. 

It’s not enough to ask people to answer yes or no. Clear and accessible information, civic education and a pluralistic public debate must be guaranteed to enable a truly free and informed decision. 

Civil society is also concerned about the legality of the referendum and advocates, as a priority, free, fair, transparent and credible elections capable of restoring constitutional normality. A revision of this importance must be conducted by democratically legitimate institutions, through dialogue, participation and national consensus.