Guinea’s junta leader Mamady Doumbouya leads in early election results, facing allegations of irregularities and a boycott by barred opposition.
CONAKRY: Guinea’s junta chief Mamady Doumbouya holds a large lead in the country’s presidential election, according to initial partial results.
Doumbouya, who seized power in a 2021 coup, faced eight rivals but main opposition leaders were barred from running and urged a boycott.
The general had initially vowed not to run for office and to return the mineral-rich nation to civilian rule by the end of 2024.
Official partial results read on public television showed him winning over 80% in districts of the capital Conakry.
He had a similar lead in other areas including Coyah, Boffa, Fria, Gaoual, Koundara, Labe, and Nzerekore.
Election official Djenabou Toure said turnout in Sunday’s polls was 85%.
The National Front for the Defence of the Constitution questioned that figure, stating a “huge majority” boycotted the “electoral charade”.
Candidate Abdoulaye Yero Balde denounced “serious irregularities” including denied access to counting centres and “ballot stuffing”.
Another candidate, Faya Millimono, complained of “electoral banditry” linked to influence on voters.
A September referendum approved a new constitution permitting junta members to run for office.
The new charter also lengthened presidential terms from five to seven years, renewable once.
Opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo was barred from standing as he lives in exile.
Former president Alpha Conde and ex-prime minister Sidya Toure were excluded for being over the age limit of 80.
