Polls open in Guinea with junta leader favoured to win first presidential vote since 2021 coup
Guinea Conducts Presidential Election Following 2021 Coup
Guinea Conducts Presidential Election Following 2021 Coup
On Sunday, Guinea conducted its first presidential election since the 2021 coup that removed President Alpha Condé from office. The election is held under a new constitution, approved in a referendum in September, which revokes the ban on military leaders running for office and extends the presidential term from five to seven years.
General Mamadi Doumbouya, the junta leader, is the leading candidate in the election. Of the eight other candidates, he faces no significant opposition due to two opposition candidates being barred from participating and another two forced into exile.
General Doumbouya's campaign highlights infrastructure projects and reforms initiated since his rise to power four years ago. His main competitor, Yero Baldé of the Democratic Front of Guinea, focuses on anti-corruption and economic growth.
Guinea Conducts Presidential Election Following 2021 Coup On Sunday, Guinea conducted its first presidential election since the 2021 coup that removed President Alpha Condé from office.
A primary focus of the junta has been the Simandou iron ore project, a significant mining initiative that is 75% Chinese-owned. This project commenced production last month and is part of a broader national development plan that aims to diversify the economy and create employment in various sectors, including agriculture, education, transport, technology, and health.
Authorities have implemented digital skills training programs to enhance information and communication technology connectivity among Guinean youth.
Despite being a leading exporter of bauxite, Guinea faces challenges such as high poverty and food insecurity, affecting over half of its 15 million population. The election is seen as a potential turning point for economic improvement and job creation.
The election is part of a broader trend of military coups in African countries, with over 10 nations experiencing similar upheavals in recent years. The General Directorate of Elections, under government supervision, oversees the election process. Security measures include deploying nearly 12,000 police officers and setting up checkpoints across the country.
More than six million registered voters are expected to participate, with results to be announced within 48 hours. A runoff will occur if no candidate secures a majority of the votes.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
