In its 52-year history since independence, the Republic of Guinea has been ruled mostly by dictators, coup leaders, and often very bloody military regimes.  However this summer the country is conducting its first fair and free democratic election, with the first round completed on June 27 and the second round approaching shortly, representing one of the most notable and (so far) successful African transitions to democracy in recent years.

Voter turnout was very high and each of the 24 registered presidential candidates (all civilians) honored their commitment to maintain calm and discipline amongst their ranks, despite some isolated complaints about the process. This commitment held throughout the entire week as the country and the international community anxiously awaited the final vote tally, placing into the second round former PM Cellou Dalein Diallo, with close to 40% of the vote, and long-time opposition leader Alpha Condé with 20%.

The atmosphere inside Guinea has been electric.  An election observer from the Carter Center has described the public participation in the process as “a potent mix of anticipation and excitement.”  He continued, “Our first stop out of Conakry was Mamou, which was buzzing with excitement because of an impending visit by one of the main presidential contenders.  On our initial drive around the city, the streets were packed with supporters – old, young, male, and female – all singing and dancing and holding placards for their candidate of choice.  The encounters that have left me overwhelmingly positive about Guinea’s future are those that involve its civil society leaders.“

While much of this election coverage may seem overwhelmingly positive, there is still significant political risk as the young democracy faces an uphill battle for survival, mainly underscored by profound poverty and inequality, bountiful but conflict-producing mineral wealth, and high expectations on behalf of the voting public.