President Akufo-Addo and the Heads of State of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), have condemned the coup d’état staged in Guinea on Sunday, September 5, 2021, and demanded a swift return to constitutional rule.
In a statement signed by President Akufo-Addo who is also the Chair of the bloc, ECOWAS asked for the immediate and unconditional release of President Alpha Condé as well as others arrested.
“ECOWAS notes with great concern the recent political developments which have occurred in Conakry, capital of the Republic of Guinea. ECOWAS condemns unreservedly the attempted coup of Sunday, September 5, 2021. ECOWAS demands respect for the physical safety of the President of the Republic, Professor Alpha Condé, and his immediate and unconditional release, as well as that of all arrested persons. ECOWAS also demands a return to constitutional order on pain of sanctions.”
“ECOWAS reaffirms its objection to any unconstitutional political change. We ask the Guinean defense and security forces to remain in a constitutional posture, and express our solidarity with the Guinean people and their government, “it added.
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Why the Coup D’état?
Soldiers led by the commander of Guinea’s special forces on Sunday, September 5, 2021 took over the power after about two hours of gun battle in the country’s capital.
Col. Mamady Doumbouya, commander of the country’s special forces who’s said to have led the hostile takeover, said on national television that President Alpha Condé was in custody following hours of gunfire in the capital, Conakry, and warned people to stay indoors.
The military seized control of Guinea, dissolved its government and sealed the borders, Doumbouya said, citing “the trampling of the rights of citizens” and “the disrespect of democratic principles” as motivations. Cloaked in Guinean colours of red, yellow and green, Doumbouya hinted his supporters and allies plan on forging a transitional government.
Who is Alpha Conde?
Alpha Conde, who turned 83 on 4th March this year, won Guinea’s first democratic election in 2010 since she gained independence from France in 1958. His charisma through his crusade to rid the nation out of a culture of corruption and persistent autocracy made him an admirer of its 13 million inhabitants.
