Guinea is bracing for a pivotal September 5, 2025, a date charged with political symbolism and rising tensions. Four years after the National Committee of the Rally for Development (CNRD), led by General Mamadi Doumbouya, seized power in a coup against former President Alpha Condé, the country faces a convergence of events that could shape its immediate future.
September 5 marks the anniversary of the 2021 military coup, the official launch of the constitutional referendum scheduled for September 21, and a call by the Forces Vives de Guinée (FVG) for nationwide demonstrations against what they describe as a “confiscation of power.”
The FVG has accused the CNRD of an “authoritarian drift,” citing violations of the Transition Charter and manoeuvres to entrench power.
In a statement, the opposition coalition warned that General Doumbouya aims to run for president under a newly crafted constitution, despite Article 46 of the Transitional Charter and Article 25 of the African Charter on Democracy barring coup leaders from holding elected office.
The FVG announced a national and international mobilisation beginning September 5 to denounce “massive human rights violations,” including the “assassinations of demonstrators,” “enforced disappearances,” and “arbitrary convictions,” while highlighting the repression of dissenting voices.
“The anniversary should serve as a reflection on promises of transition,” said an FVG spokesperson. “Instead, it risks becoming a demonstration of popular resistance to a government seeking to maintain power by unlawful means.”
September 21 brings the controversial constitutional referendum, which the opposition describes as an “electoral charade” intended to pave the way for Doumbouya’s candidacy.
Opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo of the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG) confirmed that his party and allies do not recognise the vote, highlighting concerns over voter mobilisation—a historical challenge for Guinean governments.
With protests and a highly contested referendum coinciding, the CNRD faces a dual challenge: persuading citizens to participate in the referendum while quelling growing demonstrations.
Analysts warn that Guinea’s civil peace may hinge on dialogue, adherence to the law, and the ability of all parties to prioritise stability over confrontation.
September 5, 2025, could emerge as a defining moment in Guinean history, representing either the consolidation of military power or the resurgence of popular mobilisation in defence of democratic principles.
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