Guinea has commenced voting in a pivotal presidential election that is anticipated to grant Mamady Doumbouya, the leader who took power in a 2021 coup, a seven-year mandate. The election, held on March 10, 2024, features Doumbouya competing against eight other candidates amidst a fragmented political landscape lacking a formidable challenger.
Polling stations opened at 07:00 local time in the capital, Conakry, with only minor delays reported. Voter turnout appeared steady, with small queues forming as citizens prepared to cast their ballots. Many voters expressed skepticism regarding the election’s significance, with some viewing it as a mere formality. Shopkeeper Moussa Kaba stated, “The most important thing is that the country returns to normal. I’m pragmatic. I voted for the one who is in office and who ensures the continuity of the state,” according to Reuters.
Background and Political Context
Approximately 6.7 million individuals are registered to vote, with polling stations scheduled to close at 18:00. Provisional results are expected within 48 to 72 hours following the closure of the polls. This election comes at a crucial time for Guinea, which is home to the world’s largest bauxite reserves and rich untapped iron ore deposits, particularly at Simandou, a project that officially launched in November 2023 after years of delays. Doumbouya has positioned himself as a champion of this initiative, claiming responsibility for advancing the project and ensuring that Guinea benefits from its resources.
Doumbouya’s government made headlines in 2025 when it revoked the license of Emirates Global Aluminium’s subsidiary, Guinea Alumina Corporation, following a refinery dispute, transferring the unit’s assets to a state-owned enterprise. This shift towards resource nationalism has resonated with many citizens, bolstering Doumbouya’s popularity in a nation where the median age is approximately 19 years.
After the coup, a transition charter was adopted that barred junta members from participating in elections. Nevertheless, in September 2023, a new constitution was overwhelmingly approved by the Guinean populace, removing that restriction and extending presidential terms to seven years while establishing a Senate.
Concerns Over Electoral Integrity
Political discourse during Doumbouya’s tenure has been characterized by restrictions. Civil society organizations have accused the government of stifling protests, limiting press freedom, and suppressing opposition activities. Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, highlighted on March 8, 2024, that the electoral campaign period was notably constrained, marked by intimidation toward opposition figures and incidents of politically motivated enforced disappearances. He asserted that such conditions “risk undermining the credibility of the electoral process.”
As the election unfolds, the government has not issued a response to these allegations. The international community will be closely observing the outcome, which could significantly influence Guinea’s political climate and stability in the region.
