Guinea’s ruling military junta has announced the suspension of two major political parties for three months, signaling a tightening grip on dissent.
The affected parties include the Rally of the People of Guinea (RPG), the party of ousted former president Alpha Conde.
The Union of Republican Forces (UFR) of exiled opposition leader Sidya Toure has also been suspended by the authorities.
Twenty-seven other political movements have been disbanded as part of this sweeping crackdown, according to a recent evaluation report.
The junta cited the failure of the RPG and UFR to provide bank details or hold mandatory party conferences as reasons for their suspension.
Meanwhile, the party of opposition figure Cellou Dalein Diallo received a conditional reprieve.
Diallo’s party must organize a conference within 45 days to continue its activities, a stark warning from the ruling military.
The 27 disbanded parties reportedly failed to meet requirements such as providing a registered address or a party logo.
Some also had leaders based overseas or deceased without replacement.
Amidst growing tensions and the disappearance of junta opponents, these actions further curtail civil liberties in Guinea.
Initially promising a return to civilian rule by the end of 2024, the junta has yet to fulfill this commitment.
General Mamadi Doumbouya, in his New Year’s address, vaguely stated that 2025 would be a “crucial electoral year.”
International pressure had mounted on the junta to restore constitutional order, but recent moves suggest a consolidation of power.
According to the report, only 75 parties now have permission to conduct normal political activities in the West African nation.
The crackdown raises concerns about the sincerity of the junta’s promised transition to democracy.