Guinea’s Doumbouya Schedules Constitutional Referendum for 2025

Guinea’s military leader, Mamady Doumbouya, has planned a constitutional referendum for September 21, 2025, aiming to restore civilian governance after previous election delays. Despite this move, political opposition remains suppressed, with significant parties under surveillance or suspended.

Mamady Doumbouya, Guinea’s military leader, has announced a constitutional referendum scheduled for September 21, 2025. This decision, conveyed through a state television decree, symbolizes a potential movement towards reinstating civilian governance. Doumbouya, who assumed control following a coup in September 2021, had previously promised elections within two years but did not fulfill this commitment, leading to a missed deadline for restoring civilian rule by December 31, 2024.

Guinea is a vital source of bauxite and iron ore and is among several West African nations experiencing delays in democratic transitions due to military rule. In July 2024, the ruling junta presented a draft constitution suggesting that Doumbouya might participate in the forthcoming presidential elections. It has been emphasized that the referendum must occur prior to the general elections or any reinstatement of constitutional governance.

The political landscape in Guinea remains constrained as opposition is currently suppressed. The country’s two previous ruling parties are suspended, and the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG), a significant opposition party, is reportedly under close surveillance by the authorities.

In conclusion, the scheduled constitutional referendum on September 21, 2025, marks a significant development in Guinea’s path towards civilian rule. Despite past delays and ongoing political suppression, Doumbouya’s decree signifies an essential step forward. However, the stifling of opposition parties raises concerns regarding the true nature of this democratic transition in Guinea.

Original Source: newscentral.africa