The General Directorate of Elections (DGE) in Guinea has issued a critical update ahead of the presidential election scheduled for December 28. In a multi-diffusion communiqué released on October 15, the DGE outlined the requirements and procedures for independent candidates seeking to secure sponsorships, a key step in the electoral process.
Under the Decree, and in accordance with articles 248, 252, 253, and 341 of the electoral code, the press release said, the DGE has established that independent candidates must obtain a specified number of sponsorships to qualify for the presidential race. The communiqué details a structured process, requiring candidates to submit formal sponsorship requests by 6:00 PM WAT on October 19.
Requests must be addressed to the DGE at its Cameroun, Dixinn commune office, either by letter or email where a sponsorship request form is available. The DGE has designated a network of collectors to facilitate the sponsorship process, including a national officer tasked with centralising signature lists, as well as regional, communal, and prefectural collectors.
These lists must include the sponsor’s full name, date and place of birth, voter card number, and a signed endorsement. This rigorous verification process aims to ensure the integrity of the candidacy submissions. However, the DGE emphasised that the issuance of sponsorship forms does not guarantee the availability or validation of an independent candidacy.
This clarification underscores the thorough evaluation that awaits candidates as the election nears. The deadline has now passed, and it is unlikely that late submissions will be considered. In a call for collaboration, DGE Director General, Ms. Camara Djenabou Touré, urged all stakeholders, candidates, collectors, and regional authorities, to work together to ensure a smooth and transparent process.
This effort is seen as a crucial step toward restoring constitutional order in Guinea, following recent political developments. The presidential election, less than 10 weeks away, is generating significant interest as the country prepares for a competitive race. With the sponsorship deadline concluded, attention now turns to the validation of candidates and the broader campaign preparations.
