General Mamady Doumbouya, the leader of Guinea’s military junta, has imposed a strict travel ban on government ministers, barring them from leaving the country without his explicit permission. This directive, effective immediately and lasting until the end of the year, was formally announced by the government’s general secretary on Thursday.
The statement emphasized that ministers currently abroad are required to conclude their trips and return to Guinea promptly, following the president’s orders.
This policy affects several ministers who are currently out of the country. Government spokesperson Ousmane Gaoual Diallo clarified that the decision is part of a broader effort to reduce public spending and ensure more effective governance.
He stated that the measure aims to enhance governmental efficiency and improve the management of state resources. However, senior officials from various government departments and diplomats retain the authority to represent Guinea in international matters.
General Doumbouya, who seized power in a coup in September 2021 and has since been promoted to general, initially pledged to return Guinea to civilian rule by the end of 2024.
However, the junta has since walked back on that commitment. Despite the initial international pressure to adhere to the timeline for transitioning back to democracy, it appears unlikely to be met.
Meanwhile, there has been growing support among some government officials for Doumbouya to run in the next presidential election, signaling a potential extension of his grip on power.
This travel restriction is seen as part of Doumbouya’s broader consolidation of authority as he navigates internal governance while maintaining a semblance of fiscal responsibility, all against the backdrop of his controversial rule and the uncertain path toward future elections.
