Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, who has governed Guinea since a 2021 coup, has officially entered the country's presidential race. This action follows his earlier pledge to transfer power to a civilian government and not to contest any elections during the transitional period. His candidacy was submitted at the Supreme Court on Monday.
Candidacy and Prior Commitments
Col. Mamadi Doumbouya submitted his presidential candidacy at the Supreme Court on Monday, accompanied by soldiers. He did not issue a public statement at the time of submission. Four years ago, Col. Doumbouya had stated, "Neither I nor any member of this transition will be a candidate for anything... As soldiers, we value our word very much," in a pledge to return power to civilians. The upcoming election is being conducted under a new constitution that permits his candidacy for the presidency.
Election Conditions and Exclusions
Two major opposition parties, RPG Arc en Ciel and UFDG, have been barred from participating in the December election. It was announced last month that presidential candidates are required to pay a deposit of 875 million Guinean francs ($100,000; £75,000) to stand. The previous deposit amount was 800 million francs.
Doumbouya's Background and Rule
Prior to the 2021 coup, Col. Doumbouya was a middle-ranking soldier. His military career spans 15 years, including missions in Afghanistan, Ivory Coast, Djibouti, and the Central African Republic, as well as close protection duties in Israel, Cyprus, the UK, and Guinea. At 40 years old, he is currently the youngest African head of state.
Under Col. Doumbouya's administration, Guinean authorities have implemented measures against peaceful dissent, including efforts to organize a return to democratic governance. The junta's actions have included suspending media outlets, restricting internet access, and suppressing demonstrations. Col. Doumbouya justified the deposition of then-President Alpha Condé in 2021 by citing issues such as corruption, disregard for human rights, and economic mismanagement.
Absent Figures
The December election will proceed without several notable political figures. Former President Alpha Condé, who was removed from power in 2021, along with former Prime Ministers Cellou Dalein Diallo and Sidya Touré, are all currently residing abroad.