Guinea's military ruler Doumbouya to be sworn in as president January 17

Guinea's military ruler Mamady Doumbouya will be formally inaugurated as President on January 17 at General Lansana Conté Stadium in Conakry, the presidency announced Tuesday. The inauguration follows his victory in last month's presidential election, where he won 86.7% of votes cast, a result upheld by Guinea's Supreme Court on Sunday.

Doumbouya seized power in September 2021 through a military coup that removed democratically elected President Alpha Condé. He had initially pledged not to seek elected office but later entered the race, which proceeded without key opposition figures who were barred from contesting. Since winning, Doumbouya has made minimal public appearances, addressing the nation only through pre-recorded broadcasts.

His tenure as transition head has seen restrictions on civic space, including banned protests and suspended political activities. Several opposition figures have been arrested, prosecuted, or forced into exile, while political parties and media organizations faced sanctions. In September 2025, Guineans approved a new constitution via referendum that allowed junta members to contest elections and extended presidential terms from five to seven years, with a maximum of two terms. The junta leader has largely stayed out of public view since casting his vote.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/06/guinea-to-inaugurate-doumbouya-as-president-january-17/