Gen Mamady Doumbouya has been elected president of Guinea after securing an outright majority, according to provisional results released by the national election commission.
Doumbouya, who seized power in a coup four years ago, is seeking to bolster the legitimacy of his rule through the ballot box. But civil society campaigners and opposition figures rejected the vote, arguing it lacked credibility after key challengers and major parties were prevented from taking part.
Preliminary figures announced Tuesday put Doumbouya at 86.72% in the 28 December election — well above the threshold required to avoid a runoff — granting him a seven-year mandate.
Opposition candidate Faya Millimono said the poll was affected by what he described as “systematic fraudulent practices,” including the removal of observers, ballot stuffing and intimidation. Authorities and the ruling side had not publicly responded to the allegations.
Guinean activists also pointed to online restrictions as results were awaited. NetBlocks, which tracks internet disruptions, reported Monday that access to TikTok, YouTube and Facebook had been limited. The government has not issued an official explanation, while opponents say the measures were aimed at curbing criticism and mobilisation.
Doumbouya had promised after toppling President Alpha Condé in 2021 that neither he nor members of the transition would seek elected office. That pledge was later overtaken by a new constitution adopted in September, which allowed him to run.
Eight other candidates were on the ballot, but with the exclusion of the main opposition parties — including RPG Arc en Ciel and the UFDG — analysts and critics say the race lacked heavyweight contenders.
Doumbouya retains support among segments of Guinea’s youth, yet he has faced growing criticism over restrictions on opposition activity, protest bans and pressure on the media in the run-up to the vote.
Guinea is rich in natural resources, holding the world’s largest bauxite reserves and major iron ore deposits. Authorities last month launched the vast Simandou iron-ore project, which has drawn intense public anticipation. Despite that wealth, the World Bank says more than half of Guineans live in poverty.
Any legal challenge to the provisional results would go to the Supreme Court, which has eight days to validate the outcome.