Guinea president dismisses 173 soldiers for desertion, including coup participant

The dismissals were announced via a presidential decree broadcast on state television. Colonel Lamah was a prominent figure in the September 2021 coup that brought Doumbouya to power, having been photographed with then-President Alpha Condé after his arrest. The decree did not specify when or how the alleged desertions occurred.

This action is part of Doumbouya's ongoing efforts to reorganize Guinea's military and security institutions, emphasizing discipline and hierarchy. Doumbouya, who led the 2021 coup, initially pledged to return Guinea to civilian rule but later ran for and won the presidential election. His government has faced criticism regarding restrictions on civil liberties, media pressure, and the treatment of opposition figures.