Four years after leading a military coup, Guinean leader Mamady Doumbouya is now positioned to solidify his rule by winning the presidential election scheduled for December 28.
Initially, Doumbouya, a former special forces commander, had pledged not to contest the election intended to return the country to civilian rule.
However, after a September referendum approved a new constitution removing such restrictions, he entered the race .
His campaign highlights achievements like overhauling the nation’s vital minerals sector, launching a massive iron ore project at Simandou, and maintaining relative stability.
Doumbouya’s path to the presidency seems clear, as key political challengers have been effectively sidelined.
The new constitution’s age and residency rules have disqualified prominent figures like former President Alpha Conde and exiled former Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Diallo.
Critics accuse Doumbouya’s government of creating an uneven playing field by banning protests, curbing press freedom, and restricting opposition activities.
Some analysts view his transition from coup leader to elected president as a “near Cinderella story for an aspiring military despot,” which could embolden other military leaders in the region.
Despite these criticisms, Doumbouya’s administration has secured major mining investments and has taken steps to increase state revenues from the country’s vast bauxite and iron ore reserves.
