In a momentous turning point for Guinea’s political landscape, the military-backed government jubilantly announced that an astonishing 89.38% of voters endorsed a new constitution during a high-stakes referendum held on Sunday. This sweeping reform marks a significant milestone in the nation’s governance, presenting junta leader Mamady Doumbouya with a golden opportunity to vie for the presidency in the upcoming elections.

The National Electoral Commission, tasked with overseeing the referendum, reported an impressive voter turnout of 86.42%. Yet, this announcement has sparked skepticism among various opposition groups, who argue that the figures seem questionable at best. Critics have raised alarm over alleged intimidation tactics employed during the voting process and the limited avenues for expressing dissent, casting serious doubt on the referendum’s legitimacy.

Among the constitutional changes, the extension of the presidential term from five to seven years—with the potential for one renewal—stands out as particularly significant. This shift is poised to significantly alter Guinea’s political landscape. Furthermore, the new constitution establishes a Senate, with one-third of its members directly appointed by the president, thereby substantially augmenting the executive’s sway over the legislative branch.

Perhaps most concerning, the reforms remove prior restrictions on junta leaders seeking office, effectively clearing the path for Doumbouya to enter the presidential race unimpeded.

Proponents of the new constitution passionately argue that these reforms are essential for ushering in a long-awaited era of stability after years of political turbulence and civil strife. They believe these transformative changes will fortify governmental institutions and lay a robust foundation for a transition toward civilian rule—a hopeful shift many citizens have yearned for amid the uncertainty of recent times.

In stark contrast, critics vehemently denounce the referendum as a thinly veiled maneuver to cement authoritarian rule. They warn that the new constitutional framework may serve to consolidate Doumbouya’s power while undermining democratic principles, effectively cloaking autocratic ambitions in the guise of legality and reform.

International observers have expressed profound concerns and urged the Guinean government to ensure an inclusive and transparent transition process. They emphasize the necessity for ongoing dialogue among government officials, opposition factions, and civil society to bridge the growing divisions that threaten to further destabilize the nation.

As anticipation mounts, the final certified results of the referendum are expected to be unveiled later this week, a development that could hold monumental implications for Guinea’s governance and political future.

Image Source:aljazeera.com