Guinea’s transitional authorities have presented a draft constitution aimed at reducing and limiting presidential terms. This move could potentially allow current military leader Mamady Doumbouya to participate in the next presidential election while paving the way for a return to constitutional rule.
The new draft, presented to the National Transitional Council, proposes a five-year presidential term, renewable once, down from the previous six-year term. It does not explicitly forbid junta members from participating in future elections.
This constitutional revision comes after a 2021 coup that overthrew former president Alpha Conde, who had controversially changed the constitution to allow himself a third term. The new age limit would exclude the 86-year-old Conde from future races.
The junta initially proposed a two-year transition to elections in 2022 but has shown little progress in organizing a vote. The new constitution, if approved in a referendum, could accelerate the return to civilian rule. However, no specific timeline for presidential elections has been set.
This reform represents a critical juncture for Guinea, a country rich in bauxite and iron ore. It offers hope for political stability and democratic governance, but the true test will lie in its implementation and the willingness of current leaders to adhere to its principles. The international community watches closely as Guinea navigates this crucial period of transition.