Guinea elections: Who's running and what's at stake?

"Military ruler Mamady Doumbouya is set to legitimise his rule after barring key opposition challengers. Four years after military leader General Mamady Doumbouya led a coup that toppled the civilian government of the day and derailed the country's fragile democracy, Guineans will head to the polls in a Sunday vote that will likely not deliver any surprises. The young military leader, known for his signature wraparound sunglasses,"

"With a population of 15 million, Guinea holds one of the world's largest deposits of iron ore and is the leading exporter of bauxite a key component of aluminium. Doumbouya's government is banking on its vast mines, especially the mega Simandou mine one of the largest iron ore projects in the world, to create more jobs and revenue in the coming years. Diamond, gold and uranium deposits are also abundant in the country."

"Doumbouya has gained some support due to new policies that have boosted mining exports. However, the general's detractors question his legitimacy, citing his previous pledge not to run in elections, as well as his various bans on protests and media. The 2021 coup destabilised Guinea's democratic trajectory. After decades of coups and dictatorships, it was only in 2010 that Guineans voted in the first, truly free and fair elections since independence from France in 1958."

Mamady Doumbouya led a 2021 coup that toppled the civilian government and now faces a December 28 vote likely to formalize his control after key opponents were barred. The election appears poised to confirm his rule amid limited competition. Guinea possesses vast mineral wealth, including bauxite, iron ore at the Simandou project, diamonds, gold and uranium, which the government expects to drive job creation and revenue. Doumbouya has introduced policies boosting mining exports, gaining some support. Critics question his legitimacy because of a prior pledge not to run and restrictions on protests and media. The coup prompted regional suspensions and sanctions.

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