Guinea’s Doumbouya Schedules Constitutional Referendum for 2025

Guinea’s military leader Mamady Doumbouya announced a constitutional referendum for September 21, 2025, potentially paving the way for a return to civilian governance following a coup in 2021. Despite previous delays in organizing elections and a stifled political opposition, the junta’s recent draft constitution may allow Doumbouya to run in upcoming elections, making this referendum a crucial political milestone.

Guinea’s military leader, Mamady Doumbouya, has announced a constitutional referendum scheduled for September 21, 2025. This move is seen as a significant step toward reinstating civilian rule in the country. The announcement was made through a decree on state television, emphasizing the military government’s commitment to a democratic transition.

Doumbouya ascended to power following a coup in September 2021. He had previously committed to a two-year transition period leading to elections by 2022, but failed to organize a vote, missing the December 31, 2024 deadline for returning to civilian governance. This situation highlights the challenges faced by Guinea in restoring democratic order.

Guinea is a notable producer of bauxite and iron ore and joins several West African nations currently experiencing military governance delays in transitioning back to democracy. As part of this process, the ruling junta introduced a draft constitution in July 2024, which may allow Doumbouya to contest in forthcoming presidential elections.

The referendum is a prerequisite for any general elections or the reinstatement of constitutional rule. However, the political landscape remains restrictive; Guinea’s two prior ruling parties are currently suspended, and the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG), another significant opposition faction, is under close surveillance, limiting political plurality in the country.

The scheduled constitutional referendum in Guinea represents a critical step in the effort to restore democratic governance under Mamady Doumbouya’s leadership. Despite this development, the current political environment remains fraught with challenges, including significant restrictions on opposition parties. A successful transition to civilian rule will depend on the implementation of fair electoral processes following the referendum.

Original Source: newscentral.africa