Guinea votes on new constitution to move from military to civilian rule

Guinea has opened polls for a referendum on a new constitution. About 6.7 million voters are eligible to cast a “yes” or “no”. The proposal seeks to extend presidential terms from five to seven years, renewable once. It would also create a Senate with partial presidential appointments.

In Conakry, polling stations saw early turnout despite a campaign ban on Friday and Saturday. Security forces were heavily deployed, with 40,000 officers assigned nationwide.Supporters describe the draft constitution as progressive. However, critics fear it legitimises military rule and allows coup leader Mamady Doumbouya or his allies to contest elections.

The transitional charter originally barred military leaders from running. Yet concerns persist that constitutional changes will open the door for their participation in future elections.

Opposition figures like Cellou Dalein Diallo and Alpha Conde have called for a boycott. Their parties are suspended, while the government faces allegations of disappearing political opponents. Regional context adds weight to the referendum. 

Since 2023, eight coups in West and Central Africa have shifted political dynamics, raising concerns about democratic stability.Results are expected within two to three days. Meanwhile, a presidential election is already scheduled for December, though Doumbouya, current president of Guinea, has not confirmed his candidacy

Reference

News Agency (2025, September 21). Guinea votes on new constitution to move from military to civilian rule. Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/9/21/guinea-votes-on-new-constitution-to-move-from-military-to-civilian-rule