ECOWAS Deploys High-Level Election Observation Mission as Guinea Nears Historic Return to Constitutional Rule. By Raymond Enoch
As Guinea intensifies preparations for its landmark presidential election scheduled for 28 December 2025, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has deployed a high-level Election Observation Mission (EOM) to support the country’s transition back to constitutional governance.
Leading the mission is Dr Abdoulie Janneh, a seasoned Gambian diplomat and former international civil servant, who arrived in Conakry alongside his deputy, Nigerian Senator Lawan Gana Guba, and Ambassador Dr Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security.
Speaking shortly after arrival, Dr Janneh underscored ECOWAS’ commitment to democratic stability in Guinea.
“We are here to offer ECOWAS’ support and solidarity to the Republic of Guinea for peaceful, free and transparent presidential elections,” he said.
The December 28 poll is widely regarded as a defining moment for Guinea, as it is expected to formally conclude the country’s political transition and restore constitutional order. This follows the adoption of a new Constitution through a national referendum on 21 September 2025, a milestone that laid the legal foundation for the return to democratic rule.
Dr Janneh emphasized the broader significance of the vote:
“The election of the future President of the Republic will mark the end of the transition and the return to constitutional order in Guinea.”
The composition of the EOM reflects ECOWAS’ strong political and diplomatic backing for the process. With experienced legislators, election experts, and senior peace and security officials on ground, the mission is expected to engage with national institutions, political actors, civil society, and security agencies in the lead-up to election day.
According to ECOWAS officials, the mission will assess electoral preparedness, the political environment, respect for fundamental freedoms, and the overall credibility of the process, while encouraging dialogue and restraint among stakeholders.
The arrival of the ECOWAS EOM sends a clear signal to both domestic and international audiences that Guinea’s presidential election is under close regional scrutiny, at a time when West Africa continues to grapple with democratic reversals and prolonged transitions.
As campaigning and final logistical preparations gather pace, all eyes are now on Conakry to see whether the December 28 election will deliver a peaceful, credible, and inclusive outcome, firmly anchoring Guinea’s return to constitutional democracy and reinforcing regional stability.
