Guinea took a major step on Sunday as citizens went to the polls to vote on a new constitution, a move seen as crucial to ending military rule and opening the way for long-delayed elections. Polling stations opened early in the morning and closed by evening, though authorities have yet to announce when final results will be declared.
At the heart of the draft constitution are big reforms. It proposes extending the presidential term from five to seven years, renewable once, and creating a new Senate, with one-third of senators appointed by the president. Supporters say these changes will strengthen governance, while critics fear it could concentrate too much power in the presidency. In Conakry, posters with a bold “Yes” and green checkmark painted the streets, showing the last-minute push for approval.
The referendum carries heavy political weight. Guinea, which holds the world’s largest bauxite reserves, is preparing for a presidential election in December after missing the 2024 deadline. Interim leader Mamady Doumbouya, who came to power through a 2021 coup, has not revealed his plans, though speculation about a possible run remains strong. With opposition leaders Alpha Condé and Cellou Dalein Diallo boycotting, the outcome seems tilted in favour of the government’s draft.
Beyond politics, the vote is shadowed by concerns over human rights. Reports of disappearances of critics have drawn attention, though the government denies involvement and promises investigations. On the economic front, Guinea received a confidence boost days before the referendum, as S&P Global Ratings gave the country its first-ever sovereign rating of B+ with a stable outlook—making it the third best-rated economy in West Africa.
As Guineans wait for results, this referendum stands as more than just a vote—it is a defining test of the country’s readiness to transition back to civilian rule and rebuild its democratic structures after years of turmoil.
