Guinea’s Supreme Court has approved junta leader Mamady Doumbouya’s candidacy for the December 28 presidential election, despite his previous vow not to run.
The move has sparked controversy, with critics accusing Doumbouya of attempting to consolidate power.
Doumbouya, who seized power in 2021, will compete against eight other candidates, including Abdoulaye Yero Balde and Faya Millimono.
Two prominent potential challengers, former President Alpha Conde and former Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Diallo, are ineligible due to age and residency rules in the new constitution.
The election is seen as a crucial step towards civilian rule, but concerns about its credibility remain.
Several opposition parties, including RPG Arc en Ciel and UFDG, have been excluded from the contest, and key figures like Conde and Diallo are living abroad.
Doumbouya’s government has faced criticism for restricting political freedoms, suspending media outlets, and suppressing demonstrations.
