What changes did Equatorial Guinea approve in its 2011 constitutional referendum?

In November 2011, Equatorial Guinea approved several significant amendments to its constitution through a national referendum, which passed with a reported 97.7 percent of the vote. These changes included:12

• Legislative Structure: The transition from a unicameral to a bicameral legislature.12
• Presidential Term Limits: The imposition of a limit of two consecutive terms for the president.132
• Age Requirements: The removal of the age limit for presidential candidates.12
• Executive Office: The creation of the position of vice president, who is appointed by the president and serves as the immediate successor should the incumbent die or retire.12

While these reforms were presented as constitutional updates, they faced significant international and domestic criticism. Observers denounced the referendum process due to allegations of intimidation, harassment, and voting irregularities. Furthermore, critics argued that specific measures—particularly the removal of age limits and the creation of the vice presidential role—were designed to consolidate the power of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo and facilitate his succession planning.12