Guinea Constitutional Referendum Extends Presidential Terms Amidst Political Restrictions

Guinea held a constitutional referendum on September 21, 2025, a process that has drawn significant international attention due to the nation's ongoing military rule and substantial political restrictions. The proposed constitutional changes, overseen by the military junta led by General Mamady Doumbouya, aim to extend presidential terms and permit military personnel to contest elections, raising critical questions about the country's path toward civilian governance.

The referendum, which saw approximately 6.7 million eligible voters participate, proposed extending presidential terms from five to seven years, with the possibility of one reelection. A new Senate is also to be established, with a portion of its members directly appointed by the president. Critics view this as a strategy to legitimize the junta's rule and potentially allow General Doumbouya to seek the presidency, despite an initial pledge to return the country to civilian rule by the end of 2024, a deadline that was missed.

The political landscape in Guinea has been marked by significant restrictions. In the lead-up to the referendum, three major opposition parties—the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG), the Rally of the Guinean People (RPG), and the Party of Renewal and Progress—were suspended for 90 days. Authorities cited non-compliance with political party regulations as the reason for the suspension, effectively preventing these parties from campaigning against the proposed constitution. This action has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and international observers concerned about the inclusivity and transparency of the referendum process.

Guinea's situation is part of a broader regional trend in West Africa, where military interventions have impacted democratic transitions in countries such as Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. The missed deadline for Guinea's transition to civilian rule has fueled protests and criticism, highlighting the complexities of democratic consolidation in the region. While supporters of the reforms argue they are necessary for national development and stability, critics contend that the amendments are designed to consolidate military power.

The referendum's outcome is anticipated to have significant implications for Guinea's governance and its international relations, particularly in light of regional democratic challenges. Disruptions to social media platforms like Telegram and Facebook were also reported during the voting period, raising concerns about information flow and public discourse. The results of the referendum are expected in the coming days, with presidential elections also anticipated in December.