Guinea’s Doumbouya Schedules Constitutional Referendum for 2025

Military leader Mamady Doumbouya has announced a constitutional referendum for September 21, 2025, as part of efforts to restore civilian governance in Guinea post-coup. The country has faced delays in transitioning to democracy, while political opposition remains suppressed.

Mamady Doumbouya, Guinea’s military leader, has announced a constitutional referendum scheduled for September 21, 2025, representing a significant move towards reinstating civilian governance. This decision was communicated through a decree broadcasted on state television on Tuesday evening.

Doumbouya seized power in a coup in September 2021 and initially signaled a two-year transition period to elections in 2022. However, he has not succeeded in organizing a vote, leading Guinea to miss a December 31, 2024, deadline for reestablishing civilian rule.

As a key exporter of bauxite and iron ore, Guinea is among several West African nations with military governments that have postponed democratic transitions. In July 2024, the junta revealed a draft constitution that could permit Doumbouya’s participation in the upcoming presidential election. The authorities have asserted that the referendum is a necessary step prior to any general elections or a return to constitutional governance.

Political opposition in Guinea remains suppressed, as the two former ruling parties are presently suspended. Additionally, the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG), another significant opposition group, is currently under close scrutiny.

In summary, Mamady Doumbouya’s decision to hold a constitutional referendum in September 2025 marks a pivotal moment in Guinea’s political landscape as it aims to restore civilian rule. However, challenges remain, including the consolidation of military power and the stifling of political opposition, which complicate the nation’s path towards democracy.

Original Source: newscentral.africa