SI condemns military coup in Guinea

5 September 2021

The Socialist International is deeply concerned by reports of a coup in Guinea, where President Alpha Condé has been shown in videos and images as being detained by members of the armed forces. The global social democratic movement will always reject the seizing of political power by military force, and President Condé must be immediately released.

Today's developments in Guinea have the potential to greatly increase instability and in this context, reports of gunfire on the streets of Conakry and injuries to civilians are very disconcerting. With contrasting claims emerging regarding the status of the president and the government, it is vital to prevent an escalation of the situation and avoid further violence.

The challenges faced by Guinea in regard to political stability, development and modernisation will not be resolved by this coup d’État, but will only be worsened without legitimate government in the interests of the Guinean people. For this to take place it is crucial that civilian control over the institutions of government prevails.

The Socialist International has accompanied Guinea and its people through their democratic transition in 2008 and subsequent electoral processes, progress which is severely jeopardised by the events of today. We will continue to be engaged in Guinea and in collaboration with relevant regional actors to work for peace and democracy in the country.