Socialist International condemns the violent repression of demonstrations in Guinea

23 January 2007

The Socialist International is deeply shocked by and expresses its grave concern at the violent repression in Guinea by the armed forces, police and presidential guard, which has cost the lives of more than 40 demonstrators during the current national protests calling for the removal of President Lansana Conté, who has been in power for 23 years.

The Socialist International firmly condemns these acts of violence and lends its solidarity to the people of Guinea who, following a call to strike by the country’s main trade union organisations in protest at the corruption and misappropriation of public funds, demonstrate today in favour of democratic change in Guinea and for better living conditions for the entire population.

The Socialist International demands that the Guinean government immediately cease these acts of violence, and calls on the international community to condemn this repression, help find a fair and just solution to restore calm in the country, and to support the hopes of the people of Guinea for a democratic and responsible government to lead the country as well as for an improvement in the currently unacceptable living conditions of the population.

The Socialist International also reiterates its firm support and solidarity with all the forces working peacefully for democratic change in the country, including political parties, trade unions, women and the youth of Guinea, and among them, its member party the Guinean People’s Assembly, led by Alpha Condé.

23 January 2007