Guinea’s Military Leaders Propose Longer Presidential Terms in New Constitution
Guinea’s military government is proposing significant changes to the country’s constitution, including extending presidential terms from five to seven years, while keeping a two-term limit in place. The proposal is part of a draft constitution expected to go to a national referendum in September.
The document was formally presented last Thursday to General Mamadi Doumbouya, who led the 2021 coup that ousted former president Alpha Conde. Since taking control, Doumbouya and his allies have placed tight restrictions on civic freedoms and delayed the country’s return to democratic rule.
Notably, the draft does not clarify whether Doumbouya himself would be allowed to run in future elections. While he initially promised to step aside when a civilian government is restored—and the junta’s own roadmap prohibited its members from running—recent public support from key allies suggests there may be growing pressure for him to contest.
Beyond the presidency, the proposed constitution introduces several sweeping reforms. One key change would give official status to African languages alongside French. It also includes a gender equity measure requiring that at least 30% of elected and leadership positions be held by women.
The military government had previously committed to handing power back to civilians by the end of last year, a promise made under significant international pressure. However, that transition has yet to take place.
The September referendum may now be a critical turning point—not just for Guinea’s political future, but for how the country defines leadership, identity, and representation going forward.
