In an unprecedented political move, Guinean authorities have decided to dissolve numerous political parties, while placing two major opposition parties under observation. These measures come in a context marked by the absence of a clearly defined electoral calendar since the overthrow of President Alpha Condé by the military in 2021.
Guinea, a West African country, has undergone a transition to military rule following the coup that ousted President Alpha Condé. This situation has raised concerns from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has insisted on the need for a return to civilian government. Elections are scheduled for 2025, but the process remains on hold.
The dissolution of 53 political parties and the observation of 54 others for a period of three months represents a radical measure for Guinea, which began its democratic journey in 2010 after decades of authoritarian rule. The Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization justified these decisions by the need to “clean up the political chessboard”.
The 67 parties under observation will have to fulfill certain obligations and regularize their situation according to the recommendations of the report, in particular by organizing their congresses within the allotted time and by providing banking documents. Among these formations are the Rally of the Guinean People, the party of former President Alpha Condé, and the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea, another opposition force.
The situation in Guinea is part of a regional context where several West African countries, such as Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, have also been affected by military takeovers and delays in the return to civilian rule. Last February, the head of the Guinean junta, Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, dissolved the government without explanation, promising to appoint a new team.
The political uncertainty in Guinea raises questions about the stability of the country and the future of the democratic transition. Criticism against Colonel Doumbouya is increasing, accusing the new government of repeating the same mistakes as its predecessors. The challenges facing Guinea in the coming months are immense, requiring constructive dialogue and a real will to restore democracy in the country.