Voters in Guinea have taken part in the country’s first presidential election since the military seized power in 2021, in a vote widely viewed as a critical step towards restoring civilian rule.

The poll comes nearly four years after the overthrow of the former government, with political analysts largely expecting junta leader General Mamadi Doumbouya to emerge victorious.

Election observers, including the African Centre for Governance, monitored the process across the country. The organisation’s Deputy Head of its Election Observation Mission, Tendai Mbanje, said voting took place in a generally calm atmosphere.

Mbanje noted that while some tensions were reported, the situation remained relatively peaceful, especially when compared with other states in the Sahel region. He added that the mood in many polling areas was calm and, in some cases, upbeat.

Support for General Doumbouya has been particularly noticeable among young voters. Although he came to power through a military coup, his backers say his administration has delivered practical improvements and reforms that have resonated with sections of the population.

The election is expected to play a decisive role in shaping Guinea’s political direction and determining whether the country can successfully complete its transition back to constitutional governance.

–ChannelAfrica–