Guinea's Junta Schedules September 21 Constitutional Referendum

Guinea's military junta has set September 21, 2025, as the date for a constitutional referendum, a move seen as a potential first step towards restoring democratic governance after a coup in September 2021. The announcement was made by General Amara Camara during a televised address, following increasing pressure for a timeline toward civilian rule that had previously been promised by junta leader Col. Mamadi Doumbouya. Although Doumbouya had set a deadline for a transition that was missed, he has signaled intentions to hold elections in 2025. Activists, however, have expressed skepticism, citing a crackdown on dissent and the arrest of critics as the junta attempts to consolidate power. The proposed new constitution may also allow Doumbouya to run in future elections, raising concerns among opposition parties, which are currently under surveillance or suspended. The situation reflects a broader trend in West Africa, where military regimes have delayed returns to civilian governance amid political unrest.