Guinea Votes Post-Coup: Junta Leader Doumbouya Poised for Victory Amid Weak Opposition

• Guinea holds its first presidential election since the 2021 coup, with junta leader Gen. Mamadi Doumbouya widely expected to win.
• The election follows a new constitution allowing military leaders to run and extending the presidential term from five to seven years.
• Critics allege Doumbouya has suppressed opposition, silenced civil society, and censored the press, leading to a weakened political landscape.
• Despite vast mineral wealth, over half of Guinea's 15 million people face severe poverty and food insecurity.
• Heavy security was deployed, and voters expressed mixed feelings of hope for change and skepticism over past unfulfilled promises.

Why It Matters: Guinea's post-coup election sees junta leader Doumbouya favored to win amidst suppressed opposition and public skepticism.