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Junta leader takes commanding lead in Guinea vote
Guinea's military ruler, Gen. Mamady Doumbouya, has secured a sweeping early advantage in Sunday's presidential election, preliminary results indicate. His main opponents were excluded from the race, drawing sharp criticism from civil society and opposition groups.
Partial results show landslide in key regions
Official tallies broadcast on state television reveal Doumbouya winning over 80% of the vote in multiple districts across the capital, Conakry. Strong leads were also reported in western areas like Boffa and Fria, as well as northern Koundara, Labe, and southeastern Nzerekore.
Djenabou Touré, head of Guinea's election authority, announced the figures on Monday. No independent verification of the results has been provided.
Opposition and observers denounce election integrity
A coalition advocating for civilian rule dismissed the vote as a "charade," while opposition candidates alleged widespread irregularities. Social media platforms-including TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook-were restricted on Monday, according to NetBlocks, a digital rights monitor. Critics accuse the junta of silencing dissent ahead of the final results.
Guinean authorities have not commented on the internet restrictions.
Doumbouya's broken pledge fuels backlash
After seizing power in a 2021 coup, Doumbouya vowed not to seek office, stating, "Neither I nor any member of this transition will be a candidate for anything... As soldiers, we value our word very much." However, a new constitution enacted in September allowed him to reverse course and run for president.
Eight other candidates competed in the election, but the exclusion of major opposition parties-RPG Arc en Ciel and UFDG-left no credible challengers. Doumbouya's popularity among Guinea's youth contrasts with accusations of suppressing protests, curbing press freedom, and restricting opposition activities.
Economic disparities persist amid resource wealth
Guinea holds the world's largest bauxite reserves and vast iron ore deposits, including the recently launched Simandou mine, a project expected to transform the economy. Yet, over half the population lives in poverty, according to World Bank data.
Doumbouya justified the 2021 coup by citing corruption, human rights abuses, and economic mismanagement under ousted President Alpha Condé. Critics argue his government has since replicated similar tactics.
Next steps
Final results are pending, with no official timeline announced. Opposition groups have called for protests, while international observers await further developments.
