Guinea Sets Date for Constitutional Referendum, Raising Questions About Return to Civilian Rule

By Ollus Ndomu

Guinea’s military leader has announced that a constitutional referendum will take place on September 21, 2025, a move that could lay the groundwork for a return to constitutional democracy.

Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, who seized power in a coup in September 2021, had initially pledged a two-year transition to an elected government but failed to meet that deadline.

The West African nation remains under military rule, joining a growing list of regional states where coups have stalled democratic transitions. The junta presented a draft constitution in July 2024, a document that analysts say could allow Doumbouya to contest the next presidential election.

Authorities insist that the referendum is a necessary step before any elections take place, framing it as a key milestone in restoring civilian governance.

Guinea’s former ruling parties remain suspended, and the major opposition party, the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG), is under close surveillance.

Political analysts and civil society groups have raised concerns over the fairness of the process, warning that the referendum could serve as a pretext for prolonging military rule rather than facilitating a democratic transition.

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Ollus Ndhomu

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