CONAKRY, Guinea — In a move towards restoring democratic governance, Guinea’s ruling military junta has announced that a much-anticipated constitutional referendum will take place on September 21. This vote is a crucial step in transitioning the nation back to civilian rule, following the military coup that occurred over three years ago.
The announcement was made on state television, with Gen. Amara Camara, who serves as the presidency’s secretary-general, conveying the presidential decree. This significant decision aims to adopt a new constitution, offering a structured pathway back to democracy for the West African country.
Guinea joins the ranks of several West African countries where military takeovers have delayed the process of returning power to civilian hands. Since the coup, the country has operated under a military charter, replacing the suspended constitution and providing guidelines during this transitional period.
Since coming to power in 2021, junta leader Col. Mamadi Doumbouya had initially declared that the nation would embark on a democratic transition by December 31. However, this deadline went unmet, leading to waves of protests and sharp criticisms from both activists and opposition leaders.
Faced with increasing pressure, Doumbouya assured in his New Year’s address that a decree concerning the constitutional referendum would be forthcoming. While authorities have maintained their intention to conduct all necessary elections this year, they have not specified concrete dates for these processes.
In the interim, activists and opposition factions have expressed concern over what they describe as an erosion of civic liberties. They accuse the junta leader of arbitrarily detaining critics, including journalists, under dubious charges. Human rights organizations view these actions as efforts to suppress dissent, tighten control, and prolong military dominance in Guinea.