Protests in Guinea have claimed one life and led to hundreds of arrests, intensifying unrest in the West African nation as citizens express frustration over the military junta’s failure to meet a promised deadline for transitioning to democracy.
Parts of the capital, Conakry, were under lockdown as opposition groups and civil society mobilized against the junta led by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya.
Doumbouya seized power in 2021 and had committed in 2022 to begin a democratic transition by December 31, 2024. However, the deadline passed without any significant action. 
In a New Year’s address, Doumbouya announced plans for a constitutional referendum to pave the way for a transition but refrained from providing a specific timeline. Activists and opposition leaders criticized the move as a delay tactic to prolong military rule.
The Forces Vives de Guinée coalition urged citizens to participate in a stay-at-home protest, accusing the junta of holding the nation “hostage.” The group reported that one protester was fatally shot, and hundreds of demonstrators, primarily young people, were arrested. Government authorities have yet to comment on the incidents.
The United States has joined calls for Guinea’s leadership to prioritize democratic reforms, urging the junta to establish a transparent and inclusive process.
“The United States is concerned that Guinea has not met its January 1, 2025, target to launch its democratic transition and calls on the government to engage all Guineans,” the U.S. State Department stated.
Concerns about election credibility remain high. Last year, the junta dissolved over 50 political parties, citing the need to “clean up the political chessboard.”
Rights groups have also highlighted increasing restrictions on independent media, including the suspension of information sites, the intimidation of journalists, and the cutting off of private radio stations and social networks.
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