Guinea’s military coup leader Doumbouya wins big with over 80% of the vote, consolidating power after dissolving opposition parties.
Gunfire erupted near Guinea's presidential palace in Conakry, with security forces deploying around Kaloum. Witnesses reported automatic gunfire lasting over thirty minutes. The cause remains unclear, and authorities have yet to comment. The incident follows Guinea's December presidential election, won by Mamady Doumbouya amid criticism.
Guinea and Sierra Leone have exchanged detained security personnel amid ongoing border disputes rooted in historical conflicts. Sierra Leone confirmed the release of its officers after Guinea's military entered a border town without authorization, raising regional security concerns. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to de-escalate the situation.
The US has ended a $367 million health aid deal with Zimbabwe, citing concerns over data sharing, sovereignty, and fairness. Zimbabwe rejected the deal, which aimed to support HIV, TB, and maternal health, citing risks to sovereignty and lack of reciprocal data access. The move follows similar withdrawals in other African countries amid US restructuring of aid policies.
Guinea's government has dissolved 40 political parties, including the three main opposition groups, citing failure to meet legal obligations. The move, part of a broader crackdown under President Doumbouya, aims to establish a one-party state amid ongoing suppression of dissent since the 2021 coup.
The US is negotiating health aid deals with African nations that include demands for access to critical minerals and data sharing, causing pushback from countries like Zimbabwe and Zambia. The secrecy and conditions raise concerns about exploitation and sovereignty, with some nations walking away from negotiations.