Doumbouya poised for seven-year mandate as Guinea votes in presidential poll

Guineans went to the polls on Sunday in a presidential election widely expected to formalise the rule of Mamady Doumbouya, the former special forces commander who seized power in a 2021 coup, marking the country’s return to civilian governance.

Doumbouya, believed to be in his early 40s, contested the presidency against eight other candidates in a fragmented race that lacked a strong challenger.

Reuters reports that key political figures, including ousted former president Alpha Condé and veteran opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo, remain in exile.

Voting concluded peacefully in the capital, Conakry, with ballot counting commencing shortly after the close of polls.

No major disturbances were reported during the voting process, although turnout appeared subdued in parts of the capital, where some voters said the outcome seemed predetermined.

“The most important thing is that the country returns to normal. I voted for the one who is in office and who ensures continuity of the state,” said shopkeeper Moussa Kaba.

Doumbouya arrived at his polling station in Conakry accompanied by his wife and a heavy security detail, waving to onlookers as he cast his vote.

His leadership has gained support in part due to a wave of resource nationalism, similar to trends in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger.

Guinea holds the world’s largest bauxite reserves and vast untapped iron ore deposits at Simandou, a long-delayed project officially launched last month.

Doumbouya has taken credit for advancing the project and positioning the country to benefit more directly from its natural resources.

His administration also revoked the licence of Guinea Alumina Corporation, a subsidiary of Emirates Global Aluminium, transferring its assets to a state-owned firm after a refinery dispute.

The president’s relative youth has also resonated in a country with a median age of about 19.

“For us young people, Doumbouya represents a chance to move beyond the old political class,” said Conakry mechanic Mohamed Kaba, while acknowledging ongoing concerns about corruption.

However, analysts warn that a Doumbouya victory could further entrench military influence.

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