GUINEA’S military-led government has announced a national referendum on a new constitution will be held on September 21, 2025, in what could be the country’s first concrete step towards restoring civilian governance after nearly four years of military rule.
The announcement was made via a presidential decree read on national television on Tuesday evening. The move follows months of international pressure and domestic uncertainty over the West African nation’s return to constitutional order.
According to Reuters, the referendum could signal the beginning of a long-promised transition back to democratic rule following the 2021 coup that brought Colonel Mamady Doumbouya to power.
Junta misses earlier transition deadlines
Doumbouya, who seized control in September 2021, originally pledged a two-year transition period leading to democratic elections. However, the military government failed to meet its self-imposed December 31, 2024 deadline for restoring civilian rule — a commitment made under regional and international scrutiny.
In July 2024, the junta unveiled a draft of a new constitution, sparking speculation that it could be tailored to allow Doumbouya to contest future presidential elections. Authorities have since indicated that the referendum must take place before any general election is held.
The timeline laid out by the junta has faced criticism from opposition leaders and civil society groups, who argue that the delays have eroded public trust and undermined democratic norms.
Opposition parties silenced
While the announcement of a referendum could be seen as progress, the political environment in Guinea remains tightly controlled. The country’s two former ruling parties are currently suspended, and the main opposition party, the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG), is under active surveillance.
Critics argue that meaningful political participation is nearly impossible under current conditions. Without a level playing field, the referendum and any subsequent elections risk being perceived as illegitimate or orchestrated.
Doumbouya has maintained a strong grip on power since taking office, positioning himself as a reformer while critics accuse him of consolidating military dominance and delaying democratic transition.
Natural wealth, political risk
Guinea is rich in bauxite and iron ore, making it a key player in global mineral supply chains. But the ongoing political uncertainty has dampened investor confidence and raised concerns over governance in the resource-rich nation.
Several West African neighbours — including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger — have also seen military takeovers in recent years, with juntas delaying promised returns to democratic rule.
The upcoming referendum could offer a turning point for Guinea, but much will depend on whether it leads to a genuine restoration of democratic processes or simply reinforces the current regime’s grip on power.
