Citizens across Guinea are voting in the presidential election scheduled for 28 December 2025, with campaigning concluding as incumbent General Mamady Doumbouya prepares to transition from coup leader to elected head of state. The vote marks the country’s first presidential election since Doumbouya seized power in a 2021 military coup, and comes amid growing concerns about democratic backsliding and the fairness of the electoral environment.
Doumbouya’s final campaign rally in Conakry’s Palace of the People drew large crowds expressing support for his leadership, with backers praising infrastructure development and anti-corruption efforts under his administration. At the same time, the electoral period has been overshadowed by a crackdown on dissent, with several opposition leaders barred from running or forced into exile, and civil liberties restricted, according to observers and opposition supporters.
The election follows a controversial constitutional referendum that expanded presidential powers and extended terms, enabling Doumbouya to stand despite earlier commitments not to seek office. His campaign emphasises economic modernisation, infrastructural investment and stability, but critics argue that the political playing field remains uneven and that the process offers limited genuine competition.
Around 6.7 million registered voters are expected to cast ballots at over 24,000 polling stations nationwide, with early indications suggesting a strong turnout. Official results are anticipated within 48 hours of the vote, and a runoff may be required if no candidate achieves an outright majority.
International and regional observers are monitoring developments closely, with many analysts warning that the election will be a test of Guinea’s democratic credentials following years of military rule and political uncertainty.
