Presidential and parliamentary elections in Guinea-Bissau, previously scheduled for December 6, 2026, have been postponed indefinitely without a new date announced. Aly Silva, spokesperson for the transitional prime minister, confirmed that the cabinet must first discuss the matter before setting any future timeline.

The nation's ongoing political crisis stems from November 2025, when the military seized power and halted the electoral process just as voters had cast their ballots. Although the military leadership supposedly promised a swift return to constitutional order, critics argue little has been done to establish credible conditions for democracy.

Legal analysts and local observers point out that the postponement was entirely foreseeable due to severe restrictions on political activities, suppressed opposition parties, and the absence of key political figures who remain abroad or entangled in legal proceedings. Opposition parties have allegedly been blocked from holding congresses or organizing proper campaigns.

Compounding these uncertainties, a controversial constitutional referendum in August 2026 expanded presidential powers while downsizing the parliament. Critics contend these sweeping changes further entrench authoritarian control under the guise of stabilizing the troubled West African nation.

Source: www.dw.com