Guinea’s junta leader, General Mamady Doumbouya, has been declared the winner of the nation’s presidential election, with provisional results showing him securing about 86.7% of valid votes cast in the December 28 poll — the first presidential election since a military coup in 2021. Doumbouya’s victory was officially announced by the General Directorate of Elections, which said he achieved an absolute majority, eliminating the need for a runoff.
The election marks the formal conclusion of the transitional period that began after Doumbouya toppled President Alpha Condé in a coup. The poll was held under a new constitution approved in a September referendum, which removed the ban on military leaders running for office and extended the presidential term from five to seven years.
Opposition participation was notably weak, with several major figures barred from running or in exile, and some opposition groups urging voters to boycott the election amid concerns about fairness and political freedom. Despite this, authorities said approximately 80.9% of the registered electorate participated in a vote that officials described as calm and orderly.
Doumbouya’s election is viewed by supporters as a step toward restoring constitutional rule, while critics argue it legitimises long‑standing military influence in Guinea’s politics. The results remain provisional, with final validation expected from the Supreme Court, which has up to eight days to rule on any legal challenges.
