Guinea’s Referendum Campaign Opens Under Tight Media Controls

In late August 2025, Guinea officially launched campaigning for a constitutional referendum that could reshape the country’s political future. But the process is already mired in controversy: the military‑led transitional government has suspended three major opposition parties and introduced new media rules that press advocates say will stifle debate.

The Political Backdrop

The referendum, set for 21 September 2025, coincides with the fourth anniversary of the coup that brought Colonel Mamady Doumbouya to power. The proposed constitution would extend presidential terms from five to seven years, cap them at two, and create a Senate — with one‑third of its members appointed directly by the head of state. A lifetime two‑term limit has been removed, raising concerns that the changes could entrench military rule.

In June, a draft constitution was presented to Doumbouya. While it opens the way for a return to civilian governance, it does not clarify whether he could stand in the next presidential election — a key point of contention given that the post‑coup “transition charter” had barred junta leaders from running.

Opposition Suspended

On 23 August, the junta suspended the country’s three main opposition parties — the Rally of the Guinean People (RPG) of former president Alpha Condé, the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG) led by former prime minister Cellou Dalein Diallo, and the Party of Renewal and Progress — for 90 days.

The suspension prevents them from campaigning, holding rallies, or even posting on social media during the referendum period. Authorities cited “failure to meet obligations” without detailing what those were. Opposition leaders say the move strips away any pretence of a fair transition.

Media Rules Spark Outcry

The High Authority of Communication (HAC), Guinea’s media regulator, has issued new coverage guidelines requiring equal airtime for both supporters and opponents of the referendum. However, only “recognised entities” without legal conflicts with the state may be given a platform.

This effectively bars coverage of the suspended opposition parties. Private media outlets are also prohibited from hosting interactive programmes on the referendum — a ban critics call a direct attack on free expression.

“You cannot defend freedom of expression for all Guineans while simultaneously barring interactive discussions on campaign issues. The referendum affects everyone,” said Sékou Jamal Pendessa of the Guinean Professional Press Union.

Press Freedom Concerns

Press advocates, including the Union of Journalists of the Free African Press, have condemned the HAC’s stance. Its president, Boubacar Yacine Diallo, insists no one is banned from media access, but says outlets must avoid airing views from unrecognised or illegal entities.

International rights groups have already accused the junta of cracking down on dissent since taking power in 2021 — banning demonstrations, arresting opposition leaders, and dissolving dozens of political parties.

What’s at Stake

The referendum is being billed by the junta as a step toward restoring civilian rule. But with major opposition voices silenced and media debate curtailed, analysts warn it risks becoming a one‑sided endorsement of the military’s vision for Guinea’s future.

Civil society groups are calling for:

• Lifting the suspension on opposition parties.
• Revising HAC guidelines to allow full, balanced debate.
• Guarantees that the new constitution will not be used to extend military rule.

Key Dates in Guinea’s Transition

Sept 2021 – Colonel Mamady Doumbouya seizes power in a coup, ousting President Alpha Condé.
2022 – Junta bans all demonstrations; opposition leaders arrested or exiled.
Jun 2025 – Draft constitution presented to Doumbouya.
23 Aug 2025 – Three main opposition parties suspended for 90 days.
31 Aug 2025 – Referendum campaign period begins under new HAC media rules.
21 Sept 2025 – Referendum vote scheduled.