Violent demonstrations took place last week in Conakry, the capital.
Guinea has returned to violence. The National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC) has violently repressed the demonstrations. Five people were killed, many injured and several properties ransacked during the two days of protests on Thursday and Friday.
Foniké Mengué, National Coordinator of the FNDC, was arrested on Friday night at his home by a group of hooded and armed soldiers. Ibrahima Diallo, the head of operations of the FNDC and Saïkou Yaya Barry, Secretary General of the Union of Republican Forces (UFR), the party of the opponent Sidya Touré, were also arrested. All of them were taken to the Dixinn Court of First Instance on Monday to be heard before being placed under a detention warrant.
In a statement issued today, “the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expresses its deep concern over the rising socio-political tensions in Guinea and deplores the violence.
The regional body called for the release of the detainees and the rapid opening of an investigation into the circumstances that led to these unfortunate incidents with a view to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Furthermore, ECOWAS called on the Guinean transitional authorities, the political class and civil society to engage in an inclusive dialogue in order to defuse the tension and agree on a reasonable timetable and modalities for the peaceful restoration of constitutional order.
The Economic Community of West African States also said it was “fully committed” to supporting Guinea in this endeavour, including through mediation led by former Beninese President Boni Yayi.
ARD/id/lb/abj/APA