After four years of military rule, Guinea is preparing to hold general elections, marking a significant step towards democratic governance in Africa's largest bauxite-producing nation. The country's military junta, led by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, has announced plans to end its rule and transfer power to a civilian government.

The decision comes after sustained pressure from the international community, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has been pushing for a return to civilian rule in Guinea. According to Guinean Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah, the return to constitutional order will be effective in 2025, with a constitutional referendum expected to take place in May, followed by legislative and presidential elections.

Guinea has been under military rule since September 2021, when Colonel Doumbouya led a coup against then-president Alpha Condé, citing rampant corruption, human rights violations, and economic mismanagement under his administration. The coup was sparked by Condé's controversial decision to amend the constitution in 2020 to secure a third five-year term, which sparked widespread public outrage.

Despite initial promises to hold a constitutional referendum and transfer power to a civilian government by the end of 2024, the military leaders failed to fulfill these commitments, instead arresting opposition figures and civil society members. The delay has raised concerns about the transition to democratic rule in Guinea, which has been delayed multiple times.

Speculation is growing that Colonel Doumbouya will run in the upcoming presidential election, despite assurances that military leaders would be barred from participating in a new government. This development raises concerns about the transition to democratic rule in Guinea, which has been delayed multiple times.

The Africa Center for Strategic Studies reports that the junta plans to hold a constitutional referendum in May 2025, paving the way for elections that Doumbouya is likely to contest. The international community will be watching closely to ensure a free and fair election process.

The return to democratic governance in Guinea is significant not only for the country but also for the region. Guinea's transition to democracy will have implications for the entire West African region, where several countries are struggling with democratic governance.

As Guinea prepares for elections, the international community must continue to exert pressure on the military junta to ensure a smooth transition to democratic rule. The country's future depends on it, and the world will be watching closely to ensure that Guinea's democratic aspirations are realized.