Guinea’s government has suspended three of the country’s leading political parties for 90 days, including those led by former President Alpha Condé and former Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Diallo, in a move that has heightened political tensions.
The decision, issued by the Ministry of Territorial Administration and seen by AFP on August 23, affects the Rally of the People of Guinea (RPG) of Alpha Condé, the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG) of Cellou Dalein Diallo, and the Party for Renewal and Progress (PRP) of Rafiou Sow.
According to official statements, “These parties have not fulfilled the obligations prescribed to them. They are expressly prohibited from holding demonstrations or any other act of political propaganda.”
The announcement comes ahead of planned demonstrations called by major opposition parties and civil society groups on September 5 to protest what they describe as the consolidation of military power under the current government.
Since seizing power on September 5, 2021, following a coup that toppled Alpha Condé, Colonel Mamady Doumbouya’s administration has pursued a political roadmap that includes a constitutional referendum scheduled for September 21 and the organisation of general elections by the end of 2025.
Observers say the suspension of these parties could further polarize Guinea’s political landscape and complicate dialogue between the government, opposition, and civil society. Analysts note that while the government frames the measure as a legal enforcement of party obligations, critics argue it may suppress dissent at a critical moment ahead of the referendum and elections.
The move has sparked concern among international partners and rights groups, who stress the importance of maintaining political freedoms and allowing space for peaceful political expression.
As Guinea approaches key political milestones, the suspension of its major parties underscores the fragile balance between security measures and democratic participation, raising questions about the country’s trajectory in the months ahead.
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