Guinea’s military government has scheduled a constitutional referendum for September 21, 2025, in what could be a step toward restoring civilian rule, according to a decree announced on state television Tuesday evening.
Ruling since a coup in September 2021, junta leader Mamady Doumbouya initially proposed a two-year transition but took little action toward elections. The country, a key producer of bauxite and iron ore, is among several West African nations where military rulers have delayed a return to democracy.
Guinea missed its self-imposed December 31, 2024 deadline to restore civilian governance. In July 2024, the junta unveiled a draft constitution that may allow Doumbouya to run for president. Officials have said the referendum is a necessary step before any elections.
Political opposition remains under pressure, with Guinea’s two former ruling parties suspended and the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG) placed under surveillance.
