Guinea’s military government suspends three opposition parties ahead of upcoming referendum.
Guinea’s Military Leaders Suspend Opposition Parties Ahead of Constitutional Referendum
Guinea’s military government has announced the suspension of the nation’s three principal opposition parties, an action taken just weeks before a pivotal constitutional referendum set for September 21. The order, issued on Saturday, halts any political activities for the Rally of the Guinean People, led by former President Alpha Conde, as well as the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea and the Party of Renewal and Progress. This suspension is effective immediately and will last for 90 days.
In a statement, the military indicated that these parties had not met certain unspecified requirements, raising concerns about the implications for political discourse in the country. Concurrently, the military authority shifted the commencement of the election campaign period to August 31, providing a one-week delay for parties to present their proposals for the revised constitution.
The referendum is a crucial step for Guinea, a nation that has faced significant political turmoil. It follows a coup in September 2021 that ousted Conde, who had maintained his presidency for a decade. The military-led government under General Mamady Doumbouya has faced increasing scrutiny for its commitment to a democratic transition. Many civil society groups and opposition factions have expressed apprehension regarding the military’s consolidation of power, interpreting the suspension of these parties as a direct affront to democratic norms.
As the constitutional process unfolds, groups within Guinea are gearing up for demonstrations scheduled to start on September 5, opposing what they consider a power grab by the current military leadership. The military government’s ban on demonstrations, imposed in 2022, and its actions against opposition leaders—many of whom have been arrested or exiled—have exacerbated tensions in the country.
A draft constitution presented to Doumbouya in June articulates a possible pathway to civilian governance, although it remains unclear if Doumbouya himself could pursue candidacy in future elections. The current transition charter prevents military leaders from participating in elections, a stipulation that may be altered with the adoption of the new constitution. This change could signify a shift in Guinea’s governance after decades of authoritarian rule.
Observers note that the recent developments may heighten public dissent, potentially leading to larger protests as citizens seek to voice their opinions on the country’s democratic future. The political landscape in Guinea is at a critical juncture, and the coming weeks will be significant in determining the trajectory of its democratic transition.
#PoliticsNews #WorldNews
