Guinea's Junta Leader Doumbouya Leads Presidential Race Amid Controversy and Repression
Mamady Doumbouya, who led Guinea's 2021 coup, is the frontrunner in the country's first presidential election since the coup, scheduled for December 28, 2025. His consolidation of power has been aided by a September referendum that approved a new constitution extending presidential terms from five to seven years and allowing Doumbouya to stand.
The election will feature nine candidates, including Abdoulaye Yéro Baldé and Faya Millimono. However, many opposition parties remain suspended, and some of their leaders have been detained or exiled. Opposition groups have condemned Doumbouya's candidacy as a betrayal and have highlighted a pervasive climate of fear and repression ahead of the vote. The opposition coalition accused him of choosing to undermine democracy.
During his presidency, Doumbouya pardoned former dictator Moussa Dadis Camara, a decision that drew criticism from human rights organizations. This move was followed by the postponement of a final hearing related to Camara.
The Simandou iron ore project was launched under Doumbouya's administration, promoted as a potential bridge to prosperity for the nation. However, it has been linked to job losses and environmental concerns. The project includes plans for ports and a railway infrastructure.
Regionally, West Africa continues to experience instability, remaining a 'coup belt.' While Guinea stays under the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) as a response to sanctions.
