Opposition groups in Guinea have expressed outrage over the ruling junta’s decision to extend the transitional period beyond the end of 2024, delaying the promised return to democratic governance.
The junta, led by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, claimed that the conditions necessary for completing the transition remain unmet. This announcement defies earlier commitments made to the West African regional bloc ECOWAS, which included holding elections and reinstating civilian rule within two years of the September 2021 coup.
In July, the junta unveiled a draft constitution featuring a strict two-term presidential limit, with each term lasting five years. Critics fear the new framework could allow Doumbouya to run for office in upcoming elections. However, the planned referendum on the constitution—a key step toward restoring civilian governance—has yet to occur, with no clear timeline for elections.
The Forces Vives, a coalition of opposition parties, civil society groups, and activists, has declared it will cease to recognize the junta’s legitimacy after December 31. In a call to action, the coalition urged Guineans in Europe to join a demonstration in Paris on December 28 to demand an end to military rule.
The junta’s failure to meet its transitional promises has fueled growing tensions, as opposition groups accuse the regime of stalling democratic progress.