From camouflage to tracksuits - Guinea's junta leader poised to become civilian president

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete January 17, 2026 at 01:43 AM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Mamadi Doumbouya, who led a coup in Guinea in September 2021, is set to be sworn in as the elected president on Saturday after serving as interim leader for over four years. The 41-year-old general won December's election with 87% of the vote, although the process has been criticized as a charade by exiled former Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Diallo. Doumbouya initially presented himself in military attire but has since adopted a more civilian image through tracksuits and traditional Guinean clothing. Despite some popular support, Doumbouya's democratic credentials have been questioned due to banned political parties, disappeared activists, and closed media outlets. He has been presenting himself as a man of action working for the people.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Reuters 30% Control Risks 35% Conakry 40% Cellou Dalein Diallo 50% Alpha Condé 60% Guinea ×285% Mamadi Doumbouya ×595%

Keywords

mamadi doumbouya 100% guinea 90% junta leader 90% coup 80% civilian president 80% political transition 70% election 60% military rule 60% authoritarianism 50%