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Guinea’s military government, which seized power in September 2021 under Gen. Mamady Doumbouya, has unveiled key institutions and a timeline for returning to civilian rule, though rights groups remain skeptical.

The regime has created a Directorate General of Elections (DGE) to oversee a constitutional referendum scheduled for September 21, 2025, followed by legislative and presidential elections in December 2025.

The DGE will manage voter registration, ensure electoral fairness, and liaise with regional and international electoral bodies. However, its two leadership positions will be filled directly by presidential decree, raising concerns about independence.

The junta initially pledged a civilian transition by December 31, 2024, but missed the deadline, sparking nationwide protests and prompting criticism of its credibility. Although Doumbouya later promised a referendum and election in 2025, logistics remain vague.

Since taking power, the junta has dissolved more than 50 political parties, claiming to “clean up the political chessboard”, and imposed restrictive media controls. Independent outlets and social networks have repeatedly faced shutdowns, while journalists and opposition figures report harassment and arrests.

The Guardian elaborates that posters of Doumbouya line Conakry's streets alongside a broader crackdown on dissent, with key activists missing or detained.

A draft of the new constitution, unveiled in July 2024, could enable Doumbouya to run in the upcoming elections. Observers fear the referendum may erode existing limits or entrench military influence.

Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah emphasized the transition timeline while appealing for investor confidence, particularly citing progress on the Simandou iron-ore project and a promise of its first train before the elections.

With Guinea among the West African nations that have experienced coups in recent years, regional bodies like ECOWAS and the African Union are closely watching developments. The stance of these groups regarding the election process and constitutional rewrite could significantly impact Guinea’s legitimacy and integration.