“Guinea’s Capital Under Lockdown Amid Protests Over Delayed Democratic Transition”

By   Milcah  Tanimu

Guinea’s capital, Conakry, is under lockdown as protests erupt over the junta’s failure to meet its promise of a democratic transition. The military government, led by Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, had pledged to return to democracy by December 31, 2024. However, they missed the deadline, sparking outrage.

Opposition groups and civil society organizations have criticized the junta for stalling the democratic process. They are demanding a clear roadmap for constitutional reforms, including a date for a promised referendum. Protests intensified after reports of one death and several arrests.

The opposition coalition, Forces Vives de Guinée, has called for a national stay-at-home protest. In response, the U.S. has urged the junta to establish a timeline for elections.

This ongoing crisis has raised concerns about Guinea’s future and its path to democratic governance.