Polls open in Guinea in a referendum that could allow junta leader to run for president– abcnews.go.com

Polls open in Guinea in a referendum that could allow junta leader to run for president– abcnews.go.com
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CONAKRY, Guinea — Polls opened in Guinea on Sunday for a referendum that could allow the leader of the country’s junta to run for the presidency and is being closely watched in the coup-battered region.

Citizens of this coastal West African country are casting their ballots in favor or against a new draft constitution, the key step in the country’s transition from military rule to civilian rule. Elections are expected to follow in December.

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. Critics say Sunday’s referendum is a way for Gen. Mamadi Doumbouya, who ousted President Alpha Conde in 2021, to seek the presidency and legitimize his military rule.

There are 6.7 million eligible voters and the referendum needs a voter turnout of at least 50% to pass.

Polls opened at 7 a.m. local time and are expected to close at 6 p.m.

In the last days of the campaign, Conakry, Guinea’s capital, was buzzing with activity. There were Quran readings, reggae concerts and prayers held in support of Doumbouya. Supporters wearing T-shirts and boubous — traditional West African flowing garments — printed with Doumbouya’s face, gathered at neighborhood rallies. Only one thing was missing: the opposition.