Polls opened across Guinea on Sunday for a constitutional referendum that has already deepened political tensions in the West African nation. The proposed changes, if approved, would extend presidential terms, increase military participation in politics, and reshape the country’s political future. However, the process has been marked by an opposition boycott, accusations of repression, and concerns over democratic backsliding.
General Mamady Doumbouya, who seized power in a 2021 coup, had initially pledged to restore civilian rule by the end of 2023. Instead, his government pushed forward with a draft constitution that critics say consolidates military control. The proposal would extend presidential terms from five to seven years, allow members of the armed forces to contest elections, and impose stricter requirements on political parties seeking to participate in future votes.
Supporters of the referendum have organized large-scale rallies, Quran recitations, music concerts, and public displays to generate momentum for the “yes” vote. Posters and campaign materials are widespread in the capital, Conakry, creating the impression of broad popular support. In contrast, the “no” campaign has been almost invisible, restricted largely to online platforms due to a heavy crackdown on opposition activities.
The political opposition has largely boycotted the process. Both Cellou Dalein Diallo, Guinea’s long-time opposition figure, and deposed former president Alpha Condé have called on their supporters to stay away from the polls. Their parties remain suspended by the military-led government, leaving them with no legal avenue to participate in the referendum.
Rafiou Sow, head of the suspended Renewal and Progress Party, emphasized the consequences of this exclusion, telling the Associated Press that more than half of Guineans are illiterate and therefore rely on political actors to explain the implications of such constitutional changes. “Our activists and supporters have no knowledge of this constitution. The moment we were excluded, they were excluded,” he said. “We, who were supposed to help Guineans understand what is written in it, we are forbidden even to speak.”
International organizations have also voiced concern. The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights urged military authorities to guarantee that the referendum is conducted peacefully and transparently. It warned that “recent bans on political parties and media outlets raise serious questions about inclusiveness and free participation for all.”
Polls were scheduled to close at 6:00 p.m. local time, though officials have stated that final results may not be available until at least Tuesday evening. With the main opposition sidelined, analysts believe the referendum is likely to pass.
Guinea’s political trajectory mirrors that of several other West African countries, including Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, where military juntas have seized power in recent years and postponed democratic transitions. These regimes have also sought to distance themselves from France, their former colonial ruler, and instead pursued closer ties with Russia.
The outcome of the referendum is expected to shape Guinea’s governance for years to come, but it has already exposed deep fractures within its political system, raising concerns about the prospects for democratic restoration and long-term stability.
