Guinea president dismisses 173 soldiers for desertion

Guinea's President Mamadi Doumbouya has ordered the dismissal of 173 military personnel, citing "desertion" as the reason. The decree, broadcast on state television, includes Colonel Michel Lamah, a figure prominent in the 2021 coup that installed Doumbouya as leader.

The presidential decree did not specify the circumstances or timing of the alleged desertions. Colonel Lamah was notably part of Guinea's elite Special Forces Group and gained public recognition after the September 2021 coup, during which he was photographed accompanying the arrested former President Alpha Condé.

Doumbouya, who led the coup as commander of the Special Forces, has been actively restructuring Guinea's military and security institutions. His administration consistently emphasizes the importance of discipline and hierarchical order within the armed forces. The inclusion of Lamah, a key figure from the coup that propelled Doumbouya to power, in this dismissal is particularly noteworthy.

Since seizing power, Doumbouya, who initially pledged to return the country to civilian rule, later participated in and won the presidential election. His government has faced criticism regarding restrictions on civil liberties, including limitations on protests, media operations, and the treatment of opposition figures. These latest dismissals underscore Doumbouya's continued efforts to consolidate his authority and reshape the nation's security apparatus.