Gen. Mamady Doumbouya was elected president of Guinea after securing a majority of the vote in the December 28 election, according to initial polling results published by the country's election commission on Tuesday. Doumbouya, the junta leader, is seeking to legitimize his rule after seizing power in a coup four years ago.

The provisional results indicated Doumbouya won 86.72% of the vote, surpassing the threshold required to avoid a runoff. However, the election has been met with controversy. A civil society group campaigning for the return of civilian rule condemned the election as a "charade" after Doumbouya's main challengers were barred from contesting. Opposition candidates also alleged the poll was marred by irregularities.

Prior to the announcement of the results, NetBlocks, an internet monitoring organization, reported that access to social media platforms TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook had been restricted in Guinea on Monday. While there has been no official comment on the restrictions, opponents view it as an attempt by the junta to stifle criticism of the results.

Doumbouya had previously pledged not to run for office, a promise he later reneged on, according to BBC Africa. The election took place against a backdrop of concerns about the fairness and transparency of the process. The barring of key opposition figures from participating raised questions about the legitimacy of the outcome.

The election is a significant step in Guinea's transition following the 2020 coup. Doumbouya's victory consolidates his power, but the controversy surrounding the election raises concerns about the future of democracy in the country. Further details and official confirmation of the results are expected in the coming days.