By Joe Udo
CONAKRY (CONVERSEER) – Guineans went to the polls on Sunday in a constitutional referendum that could pave the way for a return to civilian rule after four years under military leadership.
The vote, which opened at 7 AM in the capital Conakry and across the country, will determine whether the military leader, Gen. Mamadi Doumbouya, can stand for president. Under current law, the head of the junta is barred from contesting elections.
Doumbouya seized power in 2021, ousting then-president Alpha Condé, whom he accused of corruption and unfulfilled promises. He promised to steer the country away from instability and has since promoted a vision of a prosperous and modern Guinea. But critics argue that the referendum is designed to legitimise his grip on power.
At a polling station in central Conakry, 23-year-old first-time voter Mabinty Kalabane expressed support for the proposed constitution. “From the articles that I’ve read … the majority that I read are really in our interest. So I’m confident,” she said.
Others emphasised the need for democratic restoration. “My wish is the restoration of democracy in Guinea, firstly. And then I hope that all Guineans will work hand in hand to develop our nation,” said IT specialist Karamoba Cissé, 29.
Despite Guinea’s vast mineral wealth, more than half of its 15 million citizens live in poverty, with the World Food Programme warning of “unprecedented levels of food insecurity.” Many citizens disillusioned by previous governments have embraced Doumbouya’s pledges of reform.
The campaign ahead of the referendum was heavily weighted toward the government’s “Yes” vote. Last year, the junta dissolved more than 50 political parties, and in the weeks before the referendum it suspended three of the main opposition groups, preventing them from holding rallies. With more than half of Guineans unable to read or write, much of the information on the new constitution has come directly from state channels.
Exiled opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo described the referendum as “a masquerade” intended to entrench military rule and urged Guineans to boycott the polls.
About 6.7 million people are eligible to vote. The referendum requires at least 50 percent voter turnout to be valid, and results are expected on Monday. Polls closed at 6 p.m. local time.
