Faith Nyasuguta
In a dramatic move, Guinea’s authorities have dissolved dozens of political parties and placed two major opposition ones under observation, as the transitional government continues to delay announcing a date for elections. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of political instability and military rule that has gripped the West African nation since soldiers ousted President Alpha Conde in 2021.
The mass dissolution of 53 political parties and the required observation of 54 others for three months is unprecedented in Guinea, a country that held its first democratic election in 2010 after decades of authoritarian rule. The Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization announced these measures based on an evaluation of all political parties that began in June. According to the ministry, the evaluation was intended to “clean up the political chessboard.”
The 67 parties that will be under observation for three months can continue to operate normally but must resolve irregularities noted in the report. These parties include the Rally of the Guinean People, the party of former President Alpha Condé, and another major opposition party, the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea. Authorities stated that the parties placed under observation failed to hold their party congress within the time limit and to provide bank statements, among other issues.
Guinea is one of a growing number of West African countries, including Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, where the military has taken power and delayed a return to civilian rule. Earlier this year, the military junta in Burkina Faso extended its transition term by five years.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has been pushing for a return to civilian rule in these countries, with elections in Guinea scheduled for 2025.
Col. Mamadi Doumbouya, who leads Guinea, overthrew President Alpha Conde three years ago, claiming he was preventing the country from slipping into chaos and chastising the previous government for broken promises. However, since coming to power, Doumbouya has faced criticism for being no better than his predecessor. In February, the military leader dissolved the government without explanation, stating that a new one would be appointed.
The political landscape in Guinea remains fraught with tension and uncertainty. The dissolution of political parties and the observation measures have raised concerns about the future of democracy in the country. Critics argue that these actions are a means for the military regime to consolidate power and suppress opposition. The lack of a clear timeline for elections further exacerbates these concerns, leaving many Guineans uncertain about the future of their country.
The international community has been closely monitoring the situation in Guinea. ECOWAS, in particular, has been vocal in its calls for a return to civilian rule and the establishment of a democratic government. The regional bloc has emphasized the importance of holding free and fair elections to ensure political stability and development in Guinea.
The dissolution of political parties and the observation measures are seen as a significant setback for Guinea’s democratic progress. The country had made strides towards democracy with its first democratic election in 2010, but the recent actions of the military regime have cast a shadow over these achievements. The path to democracy in Guinea remains uncertain, with the military regime’s actions raising questions about its commitment to democratic principles.
As Guinea navigates this challenging period, the focus will be on ensuring that the political process remains inclusive and transparent. The international community, including ECOWAS, will continue to play a crucial role in advocating for democratic governance and supporting the country’s transition to civilian rule. The coming months will be critical for Guinea as it seeks to restore political stability and chart a path towards a democratic future.
In conclusion, the dissolution of political parties and the observation measures in Guinea highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the country in its quest for democracy. The actions of the military regime have raised concerns about the future of democratic governance in Guinea, and the international community will be closely watching the developments in the country.
The path to democracy in Guinea remains uncertain, but the commitment to democratic principles and the support of the international community will be crucial in navigating this challenging period.
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