Guinea has taken a decisive step in its political evolution with the overwhelming approval of a new constitution that could pave the way for junta leader General Mamady Doumbouya to seek the presidency. The referendum, held amid intense scrutiny and political tension, saw 89.4% of voters endorsing the charter, with a notably high turnout of 86.4% among the country’s 6.7 million registered voters. This result signals strong public engagement, though critics argue that the process was marred by irregularities and suppression of dissent.
The newly ratified constitution introduces sweeping changes to Guinea’s political framework. Most notably, it extends the presidential term from five to seven years, renewable once, potentially allowing a leader to remain in power for up to fourteen years. It also establishes a bicameral legislature with the creation of a Senate, one-third of whose members will be appointed by the president and the remaining two-thirds elected by local councils. These structural reforms are seen by supporters as a means to stabilize governance and promote decentralization, while opponents fear they may entrench executive power and weaken democratic checks and balances.
A particularly controversial provision removes the previous ban on junta members running for office, effectively clearing the legal path for General Doumbouya to contest the upcoming presidential election scheduled for December 2025. Doumbouya, who seized power in a 2021 coup, has yet to confirm his candidacy. His rise to power was part of a broader wave of military takeovers across West and Central Africa, reflecting regional instability and widespread dissatisfaction with civilian governments. While some Guineans view him as a reformist figure capable of restoring order and integrity, others remain wary of military influence in civilian affairs.
The referendum has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, many of whom remain in exile. They have denounced the vote as a “masquerade,” alleging widespread manipulation including pre-marked ballots and coercion of local chiefs to ensure favorable outcomes. Political repression continues to cast a shadow over the transition process, with demonstrations banned and opposition parties suspended. These measures have raised concerns among international observers and human rights advocates about the credibility of Guinea’s democratic trajectory.
Despite the controversy, many citizens express cautious optimism that the new constitution could usher in a period of stability and institutional reform. The promise of a return to civilian rule remains a central hope, though much depends on whether Doumbouya chooses to run and how the electoral process unfolds. As Guinea stands at a crossroads, the coming months will be critical in determining whether this constitutional shift leads to genuine democratic renewal or consolidates military dominance under the guise of reform.