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Guinea’s ruling junta announced on Tuesday that a referendum on a new constitution will take place on September 21, marking a key step in the country’s transition back to civilian rule.
The military administration, which seized power in a 2021 coup and suspended the existing constitution, made the announcement through a presidential decree read on state television.
Despite an earlier commitment to hand back power, the junta delayed the process last year. However, leader General Mamadi Doumbouya assured in his New Year address that 2025 would be a “crucial electoral year.”
The move comes amid continued concerns over political repression. Two prominent opposition figures, Oumar Sylla (also known as Fonike Mengue) and Mamadou Billo Bah, have been missing since last July. Additionally, journalist Habib Marouane Camara, the director of Lerevelateur224, has not been seen since December 3.
Meanwhile, there is speculation that Doumbouya may consider running in future elections, despite his previous assurances to the contrary. Some of his close allies are reportedly pushing for his candidacy, although the transitional charter drawn up after the coup explicitly prohibits junta members or current officials from contesting elections.
The proposed new constitution, if passed, would introduce a two-term limit for the presidency, with each term lasting five years. However, it could also open the door for changes that might allow Doumbouya or other junta members to participate in elections.
Guinea, a major producer of bauxite and iron ore, has faced growing international pressure to restore civilian governance, making the upcoming referendum a critical moment in its political future.
