CONAKRY, Guinea (AP) — The primary opposition coalition in Guinea has issued a call for its members to withdraw from the country’s legislative body following the ruling junta’s failure to meet a deadline for the restoration of democratic governance. The Forces Vives de Guinée coalition, comprising the leading opposition parties in the nation, made the announcement late Wednesday, urging its representatives to step down from the National Transitional Council. This council has functioned as the legislative body since the military assumed control two years ago.
Guinea is among several West African nations where the military has seized power and postponed the transition back to civilian rule. Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, who has been in power since 2021, had agreed in 2022 to initiate a democratic transition following a deadline set for December 31, 2024. The junta’s inability to adhere to this deadline sparked opposition demonstrations that brought Guinea’s capital, Conakry, to a standstill last week.
However, in his New Year’s address, Doumbouya announced the imminent signing of a decree for a constitutional referendum to kickstart the democratic process, without specifying a date. Activists and opposition factions criticized the declaration as a tactic to extend military rule.
Last year, the junta dissolved over 50 political parties under the pretext of “cleansing the political landscape.” Additionally, rights organizations have reported an increased crackdown on independent media, with social media platforms and private radio stations frequently disrupted, and news websites suspended for extended periods without explanation. Journalists have also faced assaults and detentions.
The National Transitional Council is responsible for drafting Guinea’s new constitution and comprises 81 members appointed by the junta, including representatives from political parties, youth leaders, security personnel, labor unions, business figures, and others.
The Forces Vives de Guinée holds significant influence in the legislative body with three representatives. This coalition includes the Rally of the Guinean People, the party of former President Alpha Condé, and the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea. These two parties collectively secured over 90% of the votes in Guinea’s most recent presidential election in 2020.
