Mamady Doumbouya, who led a military takeover in Guinea in 2021, has been sworn in as the country’s president after winning 86.7% of the vote in January 2026, marking the first election since his coup. Despite initially pledging not to run, he participated against mainly exiled opponents following a constitutional amendment allowing military leaders to contest. The election saw a crackdown on civil liberties under Doumbouya’s rule, with promises to utilize Guinea’s vast natural resources. The event was attended by various international dignitaries, highlighting its significance in the region.
