Guinea held presidential elections on Sunday, where Mamady Doumbouya, who came to power through a coup in 2021, is expected to secure a seven-year term. Doumbouya, a former special forces commander in his 40s, faces eight other candidates, but there is no strong rival in the race since former President Alpha Conde and opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo are in exile. Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. in Conakry, and some voters viewed the election as a mere formality, believing the outcome was already decided. Many citizens, like shopkeeper Moussa Kaba, expressed a desire for stability, favoring the current leader to ensure continuity.
Approximately 6.7 million people were registered to vote, with polls set to close at 6 p.m. Provisional results are expected within 48 to 72 hours afterward. Guinea boasts significant mineral wealth, including the world’s largest bauxite reserves and a major untapped iron ore deposit at Simandou, a project Doumbouya has promoted. His government’s shift towards resource nationalism and his relative youth have increased his popularity among younger voters, who view him as a chance to replace the older political elite.
Should Doumbouya win, experts predict he will strengthen his grip on power and benefit from the economic opportunities at Simandou. Although a charter adopted after the coup initially barred junta members from running, a new constitution approved by voters has changed this. While official turnout was reported at 92%, opposition voices disputed this claim. Critics point to restricted political activity during the campaign, including a ban on protests and press limitations, raising concerns over the electoral process’s credibility. Doumbouya maintained a low profile during the campaign, with his officials advocating for him.
With information from Reuters
