Guinea's transitional president and military leader Mamady Doumbouya has taken a commanding lead in the country's presidential election, according to partial results released on December 30, 2025. The development comes despite his 2021 pledge to restore civilian rule by 2024, marking a pivotal moment for the mineral-rich West African nation.
Initial data from the General Directorate of Elections shows Doumbouya securing over 80% of votes in multiple Conakry districts, with strong performances in western and northern regions. The 41-year-old former coup leader faced eight challengers, though major opposition figures were barred from participating and urged voters to boycott what they called a "predetermined outcome."
While officials reported 85% voter turnout, the National Front for the Defence of the Constitution dismissed the figures as inflated, labeling the process an "electoral charade." The citizens' group emphasized widespread abstention in urban centers, though rural areas appeared to show stronger participation.
Doumbouya first came to power in September 2021 after overthrowing Guinea's first democratically elected president Alpha Condé, who had sparked protests by altering constitutional term limits. The transitional leader initially promised to combat corruption and organize free elections within three years, but his decision to run has drawn international scrutiny as Guinea navigates its political future.
