The government of Guinea has dissolved 40 political parties, including the country’s three major opposition groups, in a late-night decree issued by the authorities.
The decision comes less than two months after Mamady Doumbouya, a former junta leader, was sworn in as president following a controversial election held in late December.
According to the decree announced by the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralisation, the affected parties were dissolved for allegedly failing to comply with their legal obligations.
The order also stripped the parties of control over their assets.
Major Opposition Parties Affected
Among the dissolved groups are three of Guinea’s most prominent political parties:
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Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea, led by Cellou Dalein Diallo
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Rally of the People of Guinea, associated with former president Alpha Conde
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Union of Republican Forces
The decree states that the dissolution means the affected parties immediately lose their legal recognition and status.
It also prohibits them from carrying out political activities or using their names, acronyms, logos, emblems, and other identifying symbols.
Authorities further announced that the parties’ assets have been placed under government control, with a court-appointed administrator tasked with overseeing their management and transfer. However, the decree did not specify which institution or body would eventually receive the assets.
Political Climate in Guinea
Mamady Doumbouya, 41, first came to power in 2021 after leading a military coup that removed Alpha Conde, Guinea’s first democratically elected leader.
Since taking power, Doumbouya’s administration has faced criticism over restrictions on civil liberties, including bans on protests and the arrest or exile of political opponents.
Human rights groups have also raised concerns about reports of enforced disappearances and kidnappings targeting critics of the government.
Long History of Political Instability
Guinea has experienced repeated periods of military and authoritarian rule since gaining independence from France in 1958.
The latest political developments have intensified concerns about the future of democratic governance in the country.
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