CONAKRY, Guinea (AP) — The primary opposition coalition in Guinea has issued a directive for its members to withdraw from the nation’s legislative assembly following the failure of the ruling junta to adhere to a deadline for the reinstatement of democratic governance. The Forces Vives de Guinée coalition, comprising the major opposition factions in the country, made the call for withdrawal from the National Transitional Council in a statement released late on Wednesday. The council has been functioning as the legislative body since the military assumed control two years ago.
Guinea finds itself among a number of West African nations where military coups have taken place, resulting in delays in the transition back to civilian rule. Col. Mamadi Doumbouya, who has been at the helm since 2021, pledged in 2022 to initiate a democratic transition following a deadline set for December 31, 2024. The junta’s failure to meet this deadline prompted protests from the opposition that brought the capital city of Conakry to a standstill last week.
In his New Year’s address, Doumbouya announced plans to sign a decree for a constitutional referendum to kickstart the democratic process, though no specific date was provided. Activists and opposition groups have criticized this move, viewing it as a tactic to extend military rule.
Last year, the junta disbanded over 50 political parties, citing a need to “clean up the political landscape.” Additionally, independent media outlets have faced increased restrictions, with social media platforms and private radio stations frequently being shut down, and news websites experiencing interruptions or suspensions for prolonged periods without explanation. Journalists have also been subject to assaults and arrests.
The National Transitional Council has been tasked, in part, with formulating a new constitution for the country. Comprising 81 members, including representatives from political parties, youth leaders, security personnel, unions, business figures, and others, all appointments to the council were made by the junta.
The Forces Vives de Guinée holds a significant presence within the legislative body, with three representatives. This coalition includes the Rally of the Guinean People, the party of former President Alpha Condé, as well as another prominent opposition party, the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea, both of which garnered over 90% of the votes in the country’s most recent presidential election in 2020.
