Guinea has scheduled its first presidential election in four years for 28 December, following a highly controversial constitutional referendum held on 21 September.
According to a government decree published on Saturday, the vote marks a pivotal step in the country’s transition from military rule, which began with the 2021 coup led by General Mamady Doumbouya.
The referendum, which passed with 89% “yes” votes and an official turnout of 86%, was boycotted by opposition groups. Critics dismissed the process as an “electoral masquerade,” claiming the outcome was predetermined.
One of the key and most contentious changes in the new constitution is that it now permits General Doumbouya to run for president, despite his earlier pledge not to contest elections during the transitional period. At the time of the coup that overthrew President Alpha Condé, Doumbouya had promised to restore democratic rule without seeking personal political power.
The new constitution also extends the presidential term from five to seven years, renewable once, raising further concerns about the potential consolidation of power.
Since seizing power, Doumbouya has governed with strict military control. Rights groups and opposition figures have criticized his regime for cracking down on dissent, restricting free speech, and detaining political opponents.
Source:Africa Publicity
