Coup Leader Triumphs
Conakry
Junta leader Gen. Mamdi Doumbouya has been declared the winner of Guinea’s presidential election held over the weekend, according to partial results. This marks the country’s first vote since Doumbouya led a coup in 2021.
The General Directorate of Elections reported that Doumbouya secured 86.72 per cent of votes counted so far. Analysts had predicted his victory, citing a weakened opposition and limited competition. The election was widely viewed as a move to legitimize Doumbouya’s extended stay in power after he overthrew President Alpha Condé four years ago.
Critics say Doumbouya’s government has suppressed dissent, dissolved over 50 political parties, and barred key opposition candidates, leaving him effectively unopposed among the eight other contenders. The closest runner-up, Yéro Baldé, a former education minister under Condé, received just 6.51 per cent of votes. Voter turnout was reportedly 80.95 per cent of the 6.7 million registered voters.
Doumbouya had initially promised not to contest elections, but a September referendum allowed military officers to run and extended the presidential term from five to seven years.
Guinea, rich in minerals and home to 15 million people, continues to struggle with widespread poverty and food insecurity. The recent launch of production at the Simandou iron ore project, 75 per cent owned by China, is seen as a potential driver for jobs and broader economic growth.
The election comes amid a wave of military takeovers in West Africa since 2020, with countries such as Guinea-Bissau and Benin experiencing coups in recent months. Observers say Doumbouya’s victory consolidates military control while raising concerns about political freedom and governance in the region.
