Guinea Votes on New Constitution: A Critical Step in Post-Coup Transition Guinea Votes on New Constitution: A Critical Step in Post-Coup Transition On Sunday, September 21, the people of Guinea headed to the polls to cast their votes in a historic referendum. The central question before them: whether to approve a new constitution intended to replace the transitional charter that has governed the nation since the military coup of September 21, 2021. That coup saw Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya oust then-President Alpha Condé, plunging the West African nation into a period of political uncertainty and military rule. More than 6.5 million registered voters—out of a total national population of 14.5 million—were called upon to participate in this decisive electoral event. The outcome of the referendum is widely seen as a bellwether for Guinea’s future, marking what many hope will be a definitive turn toward the restoration of constitutional order and democratic governance. A Nation at a Crossroads Since the 2021 coup, Guinea has been under the rule of the National Committee for Reconciliation and Development (CNRD), led by Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya. The junta justified its takeover by citing widespread corruption, economic mismanagement, and democratic backsliding under Alpha Condé, who had controversially amended the constitution to secure a third term—a move that sparked mass protests and violent crackdowns. But the promise of a swift return to civilian rule has been met with both hope and skepticism. While some Guineans initially welcomed the coup as a necessary reset, others have grown wary of prolonged military influence and the slow pace of the transition process. This referendum represents more than a simple update to the legal framework. It is, in many ways, a litmus test for the junta’s commitment to handing over power and re-establishing legitimate, civilian-led institutions. What’s at Stake in the New Constitution? The proposed constitution aims to address several structural and governance issues that have long plagued Guinean politics. While the full text has been the subject of vigorous public debate, key provisions are believed to include measures to strengthen the separation of powers, enhance judicial independence, and introduce term limits for the presidency—a direct response to the controversies that surrounded Alpha Condé’s extended tenure. Additionally, the new charter is expected to enshrine greater protections for civil liberties and human rights, areas where previous administrations faced significant criticism from international observers and local advocacy groups. Yet not everyone is convinced. Opposition figures and some civil society organizations have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the process and the potential for the new constitution to entrench military influence behind a veneer of democracy. “A constitution written under the shadow of a gun is not a constitution born of the people,” remarked one civil society leader, capturing the skepticism felt by many. Logistical Challenges and Electoral Integrity Organizing a nationwide referendum under conditions of political transition is no small feat. Electoral authorities faced significant challenges in ensuring broad participation, maintaining security, and preventing irregularities. With polling stations set up across the country’s often remote and poorly connected regions, the logistical hurdles were substantial. International observers, including delegations from the African Union and ECOWAS, were present to monitor the proceedings. Their assessments will be crucial in determining whether the vote was free, fair, and reflective of the popular will. Voter turnout, in particular, was closely watched. High participation would signal public engagement and trust in the process; low numbers could indicate disillusionment or active opposition. The Regional and International Context Guinea’s constitutional referendum does not occur in a vacuum. West Africa has seen a troubling rise in military takeovers in recent years, with coups also occurring in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Each of these nations has struggled with instability, jihadist insurgencies, and deep public dissatisfaction with elected governments. The international community—particularly former colonial power France and regional bodies like ECOWAS—has been keenly attentive to Guinea’s transition. A successful, transparent referendum could bolster confidence in the junta’s roadmap and facilitate the reintegration of Guinea into the international fold. A flawed process, on the other hand, could lead to further isolation and sanctions. As one diplomat stationed in Conakry put it, “This is about more than Guinea. It’s about whether constitutional order can be restored through military-led transitions, or whether we are witnessing a deeper erosion of democratic norms in the region.” Voices from the Ground On the day of the vote, the atmosphere in the capital, Conakry, was a mixture of cautious optimism and wariness. Long lines formed at many polling stations early in the morning, with voters eager to have their say. “I am voting yes because we need change. The old system failed us,” said Mariama Diallo, a teacher in her late forties. “But I also want the soldiers to keep their promise and leave.” Others were less convinced. “Why should we trust them?” asked Ousmane Barry, a university student. “They say this is for democracy, but they took power by force. I voted no.” Such divergent views highlight the complex and often emotional landscape Guineans are navigating as they seek to shape their country’s future. What Comes Next? If the new constitution is approved, the next step in the transition timeline will be the organization of presidential and legislative elections. Colonel Doumbouya has repeatedly stated that he does not intend to run for president, though such assurances have done little to quell speculation. Should the referendum fail, the situation becomes more uncertain. The junta may be forced to extend the transition period or renegotiate the terms of the handover, potentially leading to further instability. Either way, the days and weeks following the vote will be critical. Civil society, political parties, and international partners will all be scrutinizing the government’s next moves. A Moment of Historic Significance September 21, 2025, may well be remembered as a turning point in modern Guinean history. Exactly four years after the coup that overthrew Alpha Condé, the country has taken a major—if contested—step toward redefining its governance model. Whether this referendum leads to genuine democratic renewal or becomes merely a legitimizing tool for continued military influence remains to be seen. What is clear is that the people of Guinea have once again demonstrated their desire to participate in shaping their nation’s destiny, despite the risks and challenges that lie ahead. As results begin to trickle in and the world watches, one thing is certain: the journey toward lasting stability and democracy in Guinea is far from over. Source: RFI Afrique
2025-09-21