Guinean opposition and civil society call for junta's departure by Jan. 1

A committee of Guinean opposition groups, civil society organisations and activists known as the Forces Vives called on Tuesday for the West African country to establish civilian rule by Jan. 1.

The junta that seized power in a 2021 coup proposed a two-year transition to elections from 2022 after negotiating with the Economic Community of West African States regional bloc, but it has shown little sign of moving to organise a vote, stoking public frustration.

The top bauxite producer has witnessed sporadic protests against the authorities and military leader Mamady Doumbouya since he took office. Some have led to deadly clashes with security forces.

In July, Guinea's transitional authorities presented the draft of a new constitution which would potentially allow Doumbouya to participate in the next presidential election.

No date has yet been set for a promised referendum on the constitution, which they said would be a precursor to any election.

"Faced with this gloomy picture, the Forces Vives of Guinea solemnly call for unity of action and the mobilisation of all the nation's living forces, both civilian and military, to demand the departure of the junta and the establishment of a civilian transition by January 1," the group said in a statement.