Guinea has officially launched the campaign for its constitutional referendum scheduled for September 21, against a backdrop of political tensions and the absence of opposition participation due to repressive measures enforced by the ruling military junta since the 2021 coup.
The authorities are promoting the referendum as a step toward a “return to civilian rule.” However, widespread doubts persist over ambiguous constitutional provisions regarding the eligibility of coup leader General Mamadi Doumbouya to run in future presidential elections—despite the “Transition Charter” explicitly barring members of the military council from standing as candidates.
Since 2022, the government has maintained a blanket ban on protests, carried out mass arrests and prosecutions against opponents, and forced several political leaders into exile. More recently, it suspended the activities of three major political parties, including that of former president Alpha Condé, further undermining political pluralism.
In response, opposition groups have called for nationwide demonstrations starting September 5 to protest against the referendum, while civil society organizations are urging a postponement, citing poor organization, political repression, and the absence of guarantees for transparency and fairness.
