Politics Coup leader Doumbouya wins presidential election in Guinea
The coup leader and interim president Mamady Doumbouya has won the presidential election in the West African country of Guinea.
31.12.2025, 01:53
SDA
According to preliminary results from the electoral commission, the 41-year-old received 86.7 percent of the vote. This means he won an absolute majority and a run-off election is not necessary. The vote is considered the conclusion of the transition process following the military coup of 2021. The results must be confirmed by the Supreme Court in the coming days.
Doumbouya prevailed against eight challengers. According to official figures, voter turnout was just under 81%. However, opposition representatives cast doubt on the figure after several media outlets reported subdued turnout at polling stations in opposition strongholds.
The former colonel and commander of the special forces, now a general, overthrew President Alpha Condé in September 2021 and has since led Guinea as interim president. He had previously served for years in the French military on numerous missions abroad. He justified the overthrow with the fight against abuse of power and corruption.
The military had initially promised not to run
Originally, the military rulers had declared that they would not run themselves. However, this promise was overturned by a new constitution, which was adopted in a controversial referendum in September. The opposition accused Doumbouya of wanting to secure power for himself.
The most important opposition politician and the largest opposition parties were excluded from the election. Critics have also complained about restrictions on press freedom and a crackdown by the security forces.
Hopes for growth through iron ore and bauxite
During the election campaign, Doumbouya campaigned on the basis of stability and economic development. Many Guineans are hoping for the large-scale Simandou mining project, one of the world's most important iron ore deposits, which began operations in November. Guinea is also one of the leading exporters of bauxite, which is used to produce aluminum. In terms of health, education and general quality of life, however, the coastal state with around 15 million inhabitants is one of the poorest countries in the world.
In terms of foreign policy, Guinea, unlike the other military rulers in the region under Doumbouya, maintained close relations with Western countries, particularly France. With the formal conclusion of the transition, the country could be readmitted to the West African community of states Ecowas, from which it was suspended after the coup.
