Guinea Approves New Constitution Amid Controversy

a { color: #880000 !important; background: #ffeeee !important; } Latest News from NourishThe Nourish Mission (formerly OneSub)Get answers to today's big questionsGuinea Approves New Constitution Amid Controversyworld > politicsGuinea's recent referendum, backed by 89.38% of voters, approved a new constitution extending presidential terms and creating a Senate. The vote, amid allegations of ballot pre-marking and suppression, is part of Guinea's transition from military to civilian rule. Critics question its legitimacy and transparency.

What's happened

Guinea's recent referendum, backed by 89.38% of voters, approved a new constitution extending presidential terms and creating a Senate. The vote, amid allegations of ballot pre-marking and suppression, is part of Guinea's transition from military to civilian rule. Critics question its legitimacy and transparency.

What's behind the headline?

The recent referendum in Guinea highlights the ongoing struggle between military-led transitions and democratic legitimacy. The high approval rate, reported at 89.38%, masks widespread allegations of electoral irregularities, including pre-marked ballots and voter suppression by local chiefs. The opposition's claims, such as ballots being annulled and voting under pressure, suggest the process lacks genuine democratic credibility.

The constitutional changes, notably extending presidential terms from five to seven years and creating a Senate with one-third appointed members, serve to entrench the current regime's power. While Prime Minister Bah claims the results represent a 'mandate of trust,' critics argue the process was manipulated to legitimize Doumbouya's hold on power.

This referendum is part of a broader regional pattern where military rulers in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have also delayed or manipulated transitions. The outcome will likely influence Guinea's political stability and regional perceptions of military-led governance. The international community's response and the upcoming elections will be critical in determining whether Guinea can genuinely transition to civilian rule or remain under military influence.

What the papers say

AP News reports that Guinea's referendum was supported by over 89% of voters, but opposition leader Faya Millimono criticized ballot irregularities and voter suppression, calling the process illegitimate. Al Jazeera highlighted the high turnout and the deployment of security forces, noting fears that the referendum could legitimize military rule. Both sources agree that the process faces significant opposition and skepticism, with concerns over transparency and fairness. The AP emphasizes the political context and opposition claims, while Al Jazeera focuses on the security measures and public perception. The contrasting perspectives underscore the contested nature of Guinea's transition, with critics questioning whether the referendum truly reflects the will of the people or serves as a tool for regime consolidation.

How we got here

Guinea's military junta, led by Gen. Mamadi Doumbouya, seized power in 2021 and promised a transition to civilian rule. A constitutional referendum was held to facilitate this, extending presidential terms and establishing a Senate. The process has faced opposition from political parties and rights groups, citing concerns over fairness and transparency. The referendum is a key step in Guinea's effort to restore civilian governance after years of military rule and regional instability in West Africa.

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