Mamady Doumbouya, the former special forces commander who led a coup in 2021, has been elected president of Guinea, according to provisional results announced Tuesday. This outcome is being presented as a completion of the nation’s return to civilian rule.
A Wave of Coups
Doumbouya seized power from then-President Alpha Conde, who had been in office since 2010. This coup was part of a larger trend, representing one of nine such events that have reshaped the political landscape of West and Central Africa since 2020.
The provisional results indicate Doumbouya secured 86.72% of the vote in the December 28 election, granting him an outright victory and avoiding a runoff. The Supreme Court now has eight days to validate these results should any challenges arise.
Constitutional Changes Paved the Way
Initially, the post-coup charter prohibited members of the military junta from participating in elections. However, a new constitution, approved in a September referendum, removed this restriction, allowing Doumbouya to run for office.
Djenabou Toure, the country’s top election official, reported a turnout of 80.95%. However, this figure has been disputed by opposition politicians, who also questioned similar turnout numbers from the September referendum, and noted tepid participation in the capital, Conakry.
Resource Nationalism and Economic Shifts
Doumbouya’s government has demonstrated a turn towards resource nationalism, revoking the license of Emirates Global Aluminium’s subsidiary, Guinea Alumina Corporation, and transferring its assets to a state-owned firm. He has also claimed credit for advancing the long-delayed Simandou iron ore project, aiming to ensure Guinea benefits from its natural resources.
This approach, coupled with Doumbouya’s relative youth – he is thought to be in his early 40s – in a country with a median age of 19, appears to have contributed to his popularity.
Concerns Over Political Freedoms
Under Doumbouya’s leadership, political debate has been limited. The UN rights chief, Volker Turk, stated last week that the campaign period was “severely restricted,” characterized by intimidation, enforced disappearances, and constraints on media freedom. Opposition candidate Faya Lansana Millimono also alleged “systematic fraudulent practices” during the election and reported obstruction of observer access.
Former President Conde and longtime opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo are currently in exile. Doumbouya faced a field of eight challengers in the election, but his victory was widely anticipated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the next step in the process?
The Supreme Court has eight days to validate the election results, potentially in response to any challenges that may be filed.
What is Guinea’s economic situation?
Guinea is rich in natural resources, holding the world’s largest bauxite reserves and the richest untapped iron ore deposit at Simandou.
What concerns have been raised about the election?
Opposition candidate Faya Lansana Millimono alleged “systematic fraudulent practices” and reported that observers were prevented from monitoring the voting and counting processes. The UN has also raised concerns about restrictions on political freedoms.
As Doumbouya begins his seven-year mandate, will he be able to address concerns regarding political freedoms and ensure a truly inclusive government for all Guineans?
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