Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, the head of Guinea’s ruling military junta, has announced plans to hold a constitutional referendum in 2024, marking a pivotal step towards restoring civilian governance. This announcement comes as part of the country’s transition process after the coup that led to Doumbouya’s ascension to power in 2021.
In an end-of-year address, Colonel Doumbouya did not specify a date for the referendum but emphasized the importance of having a new constitution. “In the new year, a new constitution that resembles us and brings us together will be submitted to a referendum,” he stated. The proposed constitution aims to reflect the people’s aspirations, drawing inspiration from Guinea’s past to build a collective future.
Additionally, Doumbouya announced the appointment of state-nominated officials to head municipal councils whose mandates are expiring. The move comes as most councils are currently led by members of parties from the ousted civilian government of former President Alpha Conde and former Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Diallo, both critics of the military regime.
According to a report by The Guardian, the colonel reaffirmed his commitment to “continue the considerable efforts to return to constitutional order,” including organizing free, democratic, and transparent elections as part of the transition back to civilian rule.
Alpha Conde, who was overthrown by Doumbouya, had been in office since 2010, following decades of authoritarian rule. His tenure became increasingly controversial, especially after a constitutional reform allowed him to seek a third term, which critics saw as an attempt to extend his presidency.
Under international pressure, Doumbouya has promised to transfer power back to elected civilians by January 2026. The coup in September 2021 is part of a series of military takeovers and attempted coups that have shaken West Africa since 2020.
