Guinea’s military leader, General Mamady Doumbouya, has issued a directive prohibiting ministers from travelling overseas without his explicit authorization, a move aimed at tightening control over government activities and reducing public expenses.
The ban, announced on Thursday, is to remain in place until the end of the year, according to a statement from the government’s general secretary.
The directive emphasized that “on the instructions of the president,” all ministers currently abroad on official missions must conclude their activities and return to Guinea immediately. Several ministers are currently on foreign trips, the statement noted.
Government spokesman Ousmane Gaoual Diallo explained that the decision was taken primarily to limit public expenditure.
“This measure strengthens the efficiency of the government while ensuring optimal management of the state’s resources,” Diallo told AFP.
However, senior officials from government departments and diplomats are exempt from the travel ban and may continue to represent Guinea in international engagements.
General Mamady Doumbouya, a former colonel who assumed power in a military coup in September 2021, has led the West African nation since his promotion to general. His administration initially committed to a return to civilian rule by the close of 2024 under pressure from the international community. However, recent admissions from the junta suggest that the transition may not happen within that timeframe.
In the wake of this uncertainty, several members of Doumbouya’s government have expressed support for his potential candidacy in the next presidential election.
