Guinean President Mamady Doumbouya has immediately dissolved his government. His cabinet announced this on Monday a video message on Facebook. The head of the military junta, which has been in power in Guinea since July 2022, did not give any immediate reason for the decision. It is not entirely clear what exactly the step means. The political helm would temporarily be taken over by a caretaker cabinet until a new government is installed. It was not clear from the communication when it will be formed.
The junta seized political power in 2021 through a coup at the expense of Alpha Condé, the first democratically elected president in Guinean history. This had violated the legal provision of a maximum of two terms as president, an action that was strongly protested against. Since the coup, several political opponents have been arrested and charged and political demonstrations are banned by law. The junta is also taking tough action against critical media.
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As part of the restoration of democracy, the incumbent political power committed itself to a transition period of 24 months with the West African partnership ECOWAS in 2022. As a result, elections should be organized this year. In addition, Doumbouya promised to revise the constitution, but that has not yet happened. Since the coup, the country — a former colony of France — has been hit by several sanctions.
The junta has imposed severe restrictions on internet access in recent weeks. In addition, the country faced major fuel shortages due to a major fire in a fuel depot last year. Although not enough is known about the cause, several parties suspect intent.