Guineans went to the polls this Sunday to elect their future president, in an election that marks the official end of the political transition that began after the coup d'état of September 5, 2021.

A historic, but controversial vote

This election, the first since the overthrow of former president Alpha Condé, symbolizes a decisive step towards a return to constitutional order. More than 6.7 million registered voters were called to the polls at 24,000 polling stations across the country.

The election was held under strict security measures: temporary closure of borders, travel restrictions and massive deployment of defense forces to ensure the smooth running of the process.

An unbalanced political landscape

Nine candidates were in the running, including General Mamadi Doumbouya, the transitional president and an independent candidate. A former head of the special forces, he was widely considered the favorite in this election, in a context marked by the absence of several historical figures from the opposition.

Political leaders such as Cellou Dalein Diallo, Sidya Touré and Alpha Condé did not take part in this election, some being in exile or prevented from running.

A peaceful election, but with low voter turnout

In several polling stations in Conakry and in the interior of the country, voting took place in a calm atmosphere and without major incidents, although voter turnout was low to moderate.

In the neighborhoods of Nongo, Yattaya, Gbessia, as well as in Labé and Kindia, voters turned out in small numbers, reflecting a certain disinterest or political weariness. Calls for a boycott had also circulated, notably from supporters of the opposition, which was not participating in the election.

Democratic challenges and concerns

Several international and regional organizations, including ECOWAS, deployed observation missions to assess the regularity of the vote. They noted a generally peaceful atmosphere, but also concerns related to freedom of expression, the limited participation of political parties, and media coverage of the campaign.

The new Constitution, adopted this year, lifted the ban on military personnel running for president and extended the term of office to seven years, a factor that weighed heavily on the political debates preceding the election.

Next steps

The polling stations closed at 6 p.m. GMT. Provisional results are expected to be announced within 48 to 72 hours, according to electoral authorities. If no candidate obtains an absolute majority, a second round of voting will be held in accordance with electoral law.

Between hopes and criticisms

For some voters, this election represents a hope for stability and a return to institutional normalcy after several years of transition. For others, it remains a rigged election, lacking genuine democratic competition.

The authorities praised the discipline and civic-mindedness of the citizens, while the population now awaits the first results with caution and curiosity.