Political scientist and conflict resolution expert David Matsanga has criticised Guinea’s requirement for presidential candidates to pay a $100 000 deposit for the December elections, describing it as “a strategy of rigging.” He questioned the fairness of the rule in a country where many citizens struggle to meet basic needs.
Guinea has been under military rule since Colonel Mamady Doumbouya seized power in a 2021 coup. The upcoming elections, conducted under a new constitution, allow Doumbouya to run, although he has not yet confirmed whether he will stand.
“One hundred thousand Dollars, who can afford that when people cannot even buy a loaf of bread or a spoonful of sugar? This is gerrymandering of the highest degree,” Matsanga said. “Many political parties are just briefcase parties in Africa. Perhaps this is a way to eliminate some of them.”
The deposit is significantly lower than the previous $1.4 million required, but analysts had hoped it would be reduced further to allow more candidates to participate in what are considered Guinea’s historic elections.
–ChannelAfrica–
