Guinea’s transitional president and military leader, Mamady Doumbouya, is dominating the presidential race, according to partial results from the weekend vote. By late Monday, state TV reported he’s bagged over 80% of the ballots in key districts of Conakry and major regions like Coyah, Boffa, Fria, Gaoual, Koundara, Labe, and Nzerekore.
At 41, Doumbouya stunned many by running for office after vowing in 2021 to hand power back to civilians by end-2024. His decision broke that promise, and several prominent opposition figures were barred from running. They’ve called the election an “electoral charade” and urged a boycott.
Official figures show an 85% turnout, but critics say most Guineans sat this one out. The National Front for the Defence of the Constitution argues the vote lacks credibility without real competition.
Doumbouya first grabbed headlines in September 2021 when he led the coup that toppled Guinea’s first freely elected leader, Alpha Condé. Since then, hopes for a swift return to civilian rule faded as the general moved to cement his grip on power.
For youth across South and Southeast Asia, this is a reminder of how promises of change can shift the political landscape. Whether you’re tracking democracy debates in Jakarta, digital activism in Bangalore, or election buzz in Manila, the Guinea vote highlights a universal trend: people want real choices at the ballot box. ✊⚖️
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Guinea military chief leads in presidential race: partial results
cgtn.com
