The African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) has lifted the suspension on the Republic of Guinea’s participation in African Union activities, marking a decisive moment in the country’s political transition and its reintegration into continental governance frameworks. The decision, adopted at the PSC’s 1325th meeting on 22 January 2026, follows a sequence of political developments that culminated in the successful conduct of a nationwide presidential election in December 2025. Regional and continental actors have described these developments as meaningful steps towards the restoration of constitutional order. Beyond its immediate domestic significance, the lifting of sanctions carries broader implications for democratic norms in West Africa and the African Union’s collective approach to constitutionalism, political accountability and regional security cooperation.
Guinea’s suspension from the African Union stemmed from the military takeover on 5 September 2021, when then-special forces commander Colonel Mamady Doumbouya ousted elected President Alpha Condé amid widespread protests over constitutional manipulation and extended mandates. The coup triggered immediate regional and continental responses, with the AU, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and other partners condemning the unconstitutional change of government and suspending Guinea from regional bodies.
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Following the coup, the transitional authorities pledged a return to democratic governance. However, the path was neither straightforward nor free of controversy. Delays in setting a clear electoral timeline and questions over interim governance structures raised concerns about the commitment to constitutionalism. Ultimately, in 2025, steps towards political normalisation intensified, including a constitutional referendum held on 21 September 2025 that was approved by nearly 89 per cent of voters, according to official results.
The new constitution introduced institutional reforms, including the creation of a bicameral legislature and adjustments to eligibility criteria that paved the way for presidential elections on 28 December 2025. Official results indicated a decisive victory for Doumbouya, who secured over 86 per cent of the vote, a development confirmed by the Supreme Court in early January 2026. The election was characterised by the AU Election Observation Mission as orderly and peacefully conducted, though observers also emphasised the need for continued inclusive democratic efforts.
The Peace and Security Council
At the 1325th session, the AU Peace and Security Council recognised the “positive steps taken” in the implementation of the political transition roadmap that led to the presidential election and effectively returned Guinea to constitutional order. In reaching its decision, the Council acted in line with Article 26 of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, which provides mechanisms for restoring the participation of member states once they have demonstrated commitment to democratic norms.
The PSC communiqué publicly commended the Guinean people for their strong commitment to democracy and the peaceful conduct of the election. It also extended congratulations to President Doumbouya and encouraged him to fulfil commitments that bolster the dignity and prosperity of the nation. The Council expressed deep appreciation for the African Union Commission’s support to the transition, including technical assistance, capacity building and the deployment of observer missions. ECOWAS’s supportive role in accompanying the transition was likewise acknowledged.
This decision invites Guinea to immediately resume participation in the activities of the AU and is a formal recognition by the continental body that the country has met essential benchmarks of the transition it set in 2021.
The lifting of the suspension carries significant implications for Guinea’s political and socio-economic trajectory. Rejoining the AU fold restores access to continental platforms for political dialogue, economic cooperation and development partnerships that were curtailed under sanctions. As a major producer of bauxite, a critical global input for aluminium production, Guinea’s reintegration can positively influence investor confidence and strengthen ties with international partners eager to engage with a country now perceived to be on a path to stability.
Domestically, the return to AU activities and recognition of constitutional order offer a framework for consolidating democratic governance. The PSC communiqué explicitly underscores the need for continued support in strengthening democratic institutions, the rule of law, national reconciliation and inclusive governance. It calls for the timely organisation of legislative elections, a key next step in completing the political transition roadmap.
This emphasis on follow-through reflects broader concerns about the durability of democratic gains. Political observers note that while elections are necessary milestones, they are insufficient without robust institutions that guarantee civic liberties, political pluralism and accountability. Thus, the Council’s insistence on continued engagement from the AU, ECOWAS, the United Nations and bilateral partners signals a collective investment in laying a foundation for longer-term democratic consolidation.
Regional and Continental Considerations
Guinea’s reintegration into the African Union resonates beyond its borders. It occurs against a backdrop of several constitutional crises and military interventions in West Africa, where regional bodies have struggled to enforce democratic norms consistently. The PSC’s decision follows similar moves in other contexts, prompting debate among scholars and policymakers about the balance between punitive sanctions and pragmatic engagement in restoring constitutional order.
For ECOWAS in particular, Guinea’s transition underscores the ongoing challenge of upholding governance norms while navigating complex political realities. The reintegration reinforces the regional bloc’s broader objectives of political stability and economic integration, even as it continues efforts to address other crises in the subregion.
A Forward Path
The African Union’s decision to lift Guinea’s suspension is both a recognition of progress and a call to sustained action. It acknowledges the milestones achieved while outlining a pathway for consolidating democratic governance and inclusive development. For Guinea, the opportunity to fully reengage with the African Union offers renewed access to diplomatic, economic and institutional support. For the AU and its member states, the development reinforces a commitment to collective solutions in navigating political transitions, even as they demand continued vigilance to safeguard democratic norms across the continent.
