The United States has expressed growing concern over Guinea’s failure to meet its self-imposed deadline for launching a democratic transition, calling for greater transparency and inclusivity in the country’s political process. With the January 1, 2025, target date for initiating the transition now passed, Washington is urging Guinea’s military-led government to take immediate steps toward establishing a clear and credible path to civilian rule.
In a statement issued by the U.S. State Department, spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of a transparent and inclusive process for Guinea’s democratic transition. He called on the government to announce concrete timelines and actionable steps for both a constitutional referendum and democratic elections — two critical milestones for the country’s future governance.
“Transparency and inclusivity are fundamental to a transition that is credible, legitimate, and sustainable,” Miller stated, underscoring the need for the Guinean authorities to act swiftly in order to maintain both international support and the confidence of the Guinean people.
Call for Broader Participation
A key aspect of the U.S. call for action is the inclusion of all segments of Guinean society in the transition process. Civil society organizations, political parties, media outlets, and the public must all play an active role in shaping the country’s future, according to the statement. The U.S. government emphasized that it is essential for these groups to have full access to the process, particularly when it comes to the referendum and upcoming elections.
“The involvement of all stakeholders — including civil society, political parties, and the media — is critical to ensuring that the transition is not only legitimate but also seen as inclusive by all citizens of Guinea,” Miller added. “We are committed to supporting the Guinean people as they work toward building a stable, democratic future.”
A Key Moment for Guinea
Guinea, which has faced significant political instability and a history of military coups, has been under military rule since 2021, following the ousting of former President Alpha Condé. The junta, led by Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, initially promised to return the country to civilian rule within a reasonable time frame. However, despite pledges to hold a constitutional referendum and democratic elections, progress has been slow, and the military government has yet to deliver a clear roadmap for the transition.
The failure to meet the January 1 deadline has raised concerns both domestically and internationally. While the Guinean population has largely remained hopeful for a peaceful and democratic future, the lack of concrete steps from the government has left many wondering when — or if — the transition to democracy will actually occur.
Continued U.S. Support
Despite the setbacks, the United States remains committed to helping Guinea navigate its path to democracy. The U.S. has pledged to continue supporting the country’s people in their quest for stability, offering both diplomatic backing and resources to aid in the country’s political and economic development.
“We stand with the people of Guinea,” Miller concluded, “and we remain ready to assist them in achieving their aspirations for a democratic and prosperous future.”
International Attention on Guinea
The international community has kept a watchful eye on Guinea’s transition process, with several Western and African nations offering support while also urging the junta to follow through on its promises. For Guinea, this moment represents not only an opportunity to reshape its future but also a critical test of its commitment to democratic values and principles.
As pressure mounts, it remains to be seen whether the Guinean government will take the necessary steps to move the country toward civilian rule — a move that would not only benefit the people of Guinea but also strengthen its position on the global stage.