The African Union has announced the removal of sanctions imposed on Guinea after the 2021 military takeover, marking a significant shift in its stance toward the country. The decision follows a presidential election held in December, which the continental body described as a key milestone in Guinea’s political transition.
The move signals renewed engagement with the Guinean authorities, even as the legitimacy of the electoral process remains contested by critics.
AU Cites Progress in Political Transition
In its statement, the African Union said the sanctions were lifted due to what it called meaningful progress in implementing Guinea’s Political Transition Roadmap. The organization highlighted the organization of the presidential election in late December as evidence that the transition process had reached a critical stage.
According to the Union, the vote represented a step toward restoring constitutional order after years of military-led governance, prompting the decision to normalize relations with Conakry.
Disputed Election and Opposition Criticism
Despite the AU’s endorsement, the election has been sharply criticized by civil society groups and opposition figures. Activists campaigning for a full return to civilian rule dismissed the poll as lacking credibility, while opposition candidates pointed to alleged irregularities during voting and counting.
These groups argue that the political environment did not allow for fair competition, citing restrictions on campaigning and limited space for dissent.
Power Consolidation Under New Presidency
Following the election, Mamady Doumbouya, who led the 2021 coup, was sworn in as president during a large public ceremony attended by thousands of supporters. His rise to elected office comes years after he removed the country’s first democratically elected leader from power.
Since taking control, Doumbouya’s administration has imposed tight controls on public demonstrations and political activity. Critics say arrests, prosecutions, and forced exile of rivals have narrowed political freedoms, raising questions about the long-term direction of governance in Guinea even as international sanctions are lifted.
