Guinea’s military ruler Mamady Doumbouya has officially submitted his documents to run in the country’s upcoming presidential election, the first since he took power in a 2021 coup.
On Monday, Doumbouya delivered his paperwork to the Supreme Court, just before the deadline for candidates hoping to contest the 28 December elections, which are expected to return the nation to constitutional governance.
Although he initially vowed not to enter the race when he overthrew the previous government, a newly drafted constitution, introduced by the junta and approved in a referendum in September, now allows him to participate.
This new constitution replaces earlier agreements made after the coup that prohibited members of the ruling military council from taking part in elections. It also sets new requirements: presidential hopefuls must reside in Guinea and be between 40 and 80 years old.
However, Doumbouya’s decision has sparked criticism. The Forces Vives, a coalition of political opposition parties and civil society groups, strongly condemned his move to run.
Since Doumbouya took control, his government has been accused of suppressing dissent and using force to silence those pushing for a return to democracy. Critics point to the suspension of media outlets, restricted internet access, and the harsh response to protests as signs of authoritarian rule.
While nearly 10 candidates have filed their submissions, two major opposition parties, RPG Arc en Ciel and UFDG, have been barred from participating, creating serious concerns about the fairness of the election.
The Supreme Court will now review all candidacies and release the official list of approved contestants by 13 November.
