Guinea’s transitional government has officially presented a draft constitution to junta leader General Mamady Doumbouya, marking what observers see as a potential turning point toward restoring democratic governance after nearly three years of military rule. The draft was revealed on national television this week and is scheduled to be put to a public referendum in September 2025. If approved, it would form the legal foundation for the country’s long-delayed return to civilian rule, with presidential and legislative elections expected in December.
While the new draft largely mirrors past constitutions, it introduces key changes. Presidential terms would be extended from five to seven years, with a maximum of two terms. However, a clause from earlier versions explicitly barring any individual from exceeding two terms in their lifetime has been removed—raising concerns among civil society groups about potential term-limit manipulation in the future. Another notable feature of the proposed constitution is the creation of a bicameral legislature, including a Senate. One-third of its members would be appointed directly by the president, a move critics say could undermine institutional independence.
Guinea has been under military control since September 2021, when then-president Alpha Condé was ousted in a coup led by Doumbouya. Since then, the transition has been marked by delays, including missed electoral deadlines and the controversial dissolution of over 40 political parties last year. Despite these setbacks, transitional Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah announced in May that the government remains committed to holding elections by December 2025. The upcoming referendum on the new constitution is seen as a pivotal step in that process.
International observers, including ECOWAS and the African Union, are closely monitoring Guinea’s transition timeline, emphasizing the need for transparency, inclusive dialogue, and respect for democratic norms.
