Archive · 21 Sep 2025
Guinea Holds Referendum Amidst Concerns of Coup Leader's Power Grab
Guinea, a country in West Africa, held a vote on a new constitution.
This vote is important because it could allow the current leader, who took power in a coup (military takeover), to become president.
Many people are worried because they think this is a way for the military to stay in power.
The new rules could make the leader's time in charge longer and change how the government works.
Some political parties have told their supporters to skip the vote.
Even though Guinea has been given a good financial rating, there are still concerns about fairness, especially regarding political opponents and media freedoms.
Guinea held a referendum on a new constitution.
The referendum could allow coup leader Mamady Doumbouya to run for president.
Opposition leaders called for a boycott of the vote.
The new constitution would extend presidential terms and create a Senate.
Guinea received its first sovereign rating from S&P Global Ratings, with concerns about social issues and opposition tensions.
- Who
- The people of Guinea are voting on a new constitution; led by military junta.
- What
- A referendum on a new constitution, which could allow coup leader Mamady Doumbouya to run for president.
- When
- Voting took place on Sunday; presidential election expected in December.
- Where
- Guinea, in West Africa.
- Why
- To potentially legitimize the military government and its leader, as well as to facilitate a transition to civilian rule.
Critics of the referendum
Government
Purpose of Referendum
Critics of the referendum
Critics view the referendum as a power grab by Doumbouya to extend his rule.
Government
The government frames the referendum as a step towards elections and a return to civilian rule.
Impact on Civilian Rule
Critics of the referendum
Critics fear the referendum will legitimize military rule.
Government
The government presents the referendum as part of the transition to civilian governance.
- Event
- Referendum on a new constitution
- Location
- Guinea, West Africa
- Key Figure
- Mamady Doumbouya (coup leader)
- Potential Outcome
- Allow Doumbouya to run for president
- Election Date
- Expected in December
- Constitution Change
- Lengthens presidential term from five to seven years, creates Senate
- Sovereign Rating
- B+ with stable outlook by S&P Global Ratings