In a dramatic political transformation, Guinea's military leader General Mamady Doumbouya has clinched the presidency with an overwhelming 86.7% of the vote, marking a controversial transition from coup leader to elected president.

The 41-year-old general, who originally seized power in a 2021 military coup, has now sought to legitimize his rule through the electoral process, despite significant opposition criticism.

Official election results revealed Doumbouya's nearest competitor, Abdoulaye Yero Balde of the Democratic Front of Guinea, secured just 6.6% of the vote, with Faya Lansana Millimono of the Liberal Bloc trailing at 2%. Eight other candidates participated, though most received minimal support.

The election was not without significant challenges. Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported social media platforms including TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook were restricted during vote counting, which opposition figures interpreted as an attempt to control information flow. Millimono directly accused the election of featuring 'systematic fraudulent practices', including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation.

Notably, Doumbouya previously promised not to seek election after overthrowing then-president Alpha Condé, stating that neither he nor transition members would run for office. However, a new constitution implemented in September allowed his candidacy, breaking his original commitment.

Election official Djenabou Toure announced a voter turnout exceeding 80%, though a civil society group, the National Front for the Defence of the Constitution, claimed most Guineans boycotted what they termed an 'electoral charade'. The exclusion of major opposition parties RPG Arc en Ciel and UFDG further complicated the election's perceived legitimacy.

Despite criticisms, Doumbouya remains popular among Guinea's youth and originally justified his coup by citing concerns about corruption, human rights violations, and economic mismanagement. The country, rich in bauxite and iron ore resources, continues to struggle with significant poverty, with over half the population living below economic stability.

With his seven-year mandate secured, General Doumbouya now faces the substantial challenge of transforming Guinea's political landscape and delivering on promises of reform and development. The Supreme Court has eight days to validate the election results, potentially setting the stage for further legal challenges.