Voters in Guinea participated in presidential elections Sunday as the nation's ruling military junta, led by Col. Mamady Doumbouya, sought to solidify its authority following a four-year transitional period. Doumbouya, who seized power in a 2021 coup, initially pledged to relinquish control after organizing elections, but multiple deadlines for the restoration of civilian rule were missed.

Doumbouya introduced a new Constitution that enabled him to contest the presidency. The election follows a pattern seen in several African nations this year, where incumbent leaders have restricted the participation of key political rivals. Among those barred from running were former Prime Ministers Cellou Dalein Diallo and Sidya Touré, as well as Alpha Condé, the president Doumbouya ousted. Condé, Guinea's first democratically elected president, had sparked widespread protests by eliminating term limits to secure a third term.

Abdoulaye Yéro Baldé, an economist who previously served as higher education minister, emerged as Doumbouya's main challenger. Despite concerns about the political climate, Baldé emphasized the importance of participation, stating, "The environment is not conducive, but we have to stand our ground."

The 2021 coup, led by Doumbouya, occurred after Condé's controversial decision to seek a third term in office. Condé's move was met with significant opposition, leading to political instability and ultimately the military intervention. Doumbouya's subsequent actions, including the extension of the transition period and the constitutional changes, have drawn criticism from opposition groups and international observers.

The outcome of the election and its potential impact on Guinea's political future remain uncertain. The election is viewed as a critical juncture for the nation, testing the junta's commitment to transitioning back to civilian rule and addressing concerns about democratic governance.