Guinea: Coup leader reverses pledge, enters presidential race
In a decisive reversal of his earlier commitment, Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, Guinea’s military ruler since the 2021 coup, has registered as a candidate for next month’s presidential election. The move breaks his explicit promise made four years ago that neither he nor any member of the junta would stand for elected office.
His candidacy submission at the Supreme Court, flanked by soldiers, solidifies a political transition that critics argue is engineered to legitimize his continued rule.
The election’s credibility is already under intense scrutiny following the exclusion of two major opposition parties and the retention of an exorbitant candidacy fee of nearly $100,000, which severely limits competition.
Since seizing power from 83-year-old President Alpha Condé whom he accused of corruption and authoritarianism Colonel Doumbouya’s regime has itself been marked by a crackdown on dissent.
His administration has suspended media outlets, restricted internet access, and suppressed protests.
The election will proceed under a new constitution that permits his candidacy, but in the notable absence of key political figures, including former President Condé and other prominent exiled leaders.
This development signals a consolidation of military power in civilian guise, leaving Guinea’s democratic future deeply uncertain.
