After more than three years in power, Guinea’s junta leader Mamadi Doumbouya has promoted himself to the rank of army general. This move coincides with the celebration of the establishment of the military’s dominance in the country.
Doumbouya, who is 43 years old, initially seized control in September 2021 when he ousted President Alpha Conde. At that time, Conde had appointed Doumbouya, then a colonel, to lead an elite unit responsible for safeguarding the president against potential coups.
In a decree issued on Friday evening, Doumbouya also received the Grand Cross of the National Order of the Colatier, the highest honor in Guinea. His supporters have been encouraging him to consider a presidential run when the junta eventually relinquishes power.
The justification for his promotion included recognition of his efforts to foster social unity and cooperation among the populace. However, Doumbouya’s regime has been characterized by a severe crackdown on opposition voices, resulting in the detention of numerous political leaders, some of whom have faced court proceedings or have fled into exile.
Since 2020, the West African region has witnessed a surge in military coups, with military leaders assuming control in countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic.
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