Guinean President Doumbouya Makes Public Appearance After Weeks of Absence

President Mamadi Doumbouya has been seen in public for the first time since February 13, ending three weeks of absence and speculation about his whereabouts.

The Guinean leader was last seen in public when he left the country for the African Union summit in Addis Ababa last month.

He was received at Ahmed Sékou Touré International Airport by his wife, Lauriane Doumbouya, Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah, several military commanders and other officials, as well as thousands of supporters who lined the streets waving the country’s flag as his motorcade moved toward the presidential palace.

Authorities had earlier dismissed the speculation on Monday, stating that the Guinean leader was in good health and had taken a few days off to rest as part of a routine medical check-up.

“This return comes at the end of a significant diplomatic period for Guinea,” the presidency said in a statement, adding: “Guinea is today affirming its return to the heart of international affairs, thus consolidating its gradual repositioning on the world stage.”

Although officials have still not disclosed where he travelled to, his return has put an end to several speculations surrounding his disappearance.