Region / country
period from
to
114 results found
Items 1 - 50 of 114
Guinea
| 1 May 2013
Tensions over proposed date for legislative polls and revision of electoral lists continued: govt, opposition agreed over UNSG Ban’s designation of SRSG for West Africa Saïd Djinnit as facilitator. President Condé 13 April announced 30 June poll date, electoral commission resumed operations despite ongoing dialogue. Opposition 18 April marched in Conakry to protest govt’s attitude, lack of dialogue and agreement concerning electoral preparations; at least 15 injured in clashes with police, 7 arrested including 2 opposition leaders. Further clashes 25 April left 1 dead. Djinnit 15-17 April visited Conakry, called on parties to stay calm.
Guinea
| 1 Apr 2013
At least one killed in violent protests 4, 5, 8 March. Opposition pulled out of talks aimed at preparing for dialogue on May elections beginning 4 March, accused govt of failing to respect terms of dialogue. Authorities dropped investigations against opposition figures relating to protests. Revision of electoral lists suspended 14 March.
Guinea
| 1 Mar 2013
Security situation deteriorated as govt-controlled electoral commission (CENI) sped up preparations ahead of 12 May polls, controversially validating choice of 2 companies to undertake revision of electoral lists, and leading to opposition protests in Conakry and other cities and 23 Feb opposition decision to pull out of electoral preparations. Govt 24 Feb invited political leaders to meet with President Condé 4 March; further opposition protests 27 Feb left at least 130 injured, including 68 security forces. General Namory Traoré 25 Feb replaced Kelefa Diallo, who died in plane crash 11 Feb, as armed forces Chief of Staff.
Guinea
| 1 Feb 2013
Trial of 33 suspected of carrying out attack on President Condé’s residence in July 2011 resumed 7 Jan; several defendants 21 Jan claimed evidence presented in court was obtained through torture. 2 main opposition coalitions lifted boycott of local electoral commissions 11 Jan, but reiterated disagreement with authorities and president of electoral commission over electoral preparations. Main opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo 21 Jan insisted protest campaign would be launched if Condé did not satisfy opposition’s demands. Condé 25 Jan denied problems with electoral list, insisted process would go on according to plan.
Guinea
| 30 Dec 2012
Controversy over electoral preparations continued as opposition coalitions 10 Dec denounced new president of electoral commission Bakary Fofana for failing to release latest audit of electoral list by International Organisation of La Francophonie. Fofana 11 Dec said elections will be held 12 May 2013, thus opening access to EU assistance funds. At least 2 killed, 52 wounded 8-11 Dec in Guéckédou town when police clashed with demonstrators protesting against local administrator, accused of abusing power to strengthen ruling RPG party. 2 suspects arrested late month in murder of Treasury Office director Aïssatou Boiro.
Guinea
| 1 Dec 2012
Treasury Office director Aïssatou Boiro, who had uncovered high-level corruption case, killed 9 Nov by unidentified gunmen wearing army uniforms. Govt 1 Nov swore in new electoral commission despite opposition concerns over panel’s composition. Opposition 7 Nov reiterated criticism of govt hiring of South African company Waymark to revise 2010 electoral register over fears of manipulation of electoral roll. Conakry Court again summoned 15 accused in July 2011 attack on President Condé’s residence to appear in court, including former chief of staff Nouhou Thiam and Oury Bah, VP of leading opposition party UFDG.
Guinea
| 1 Nov 2012
President Condé 5 Oct reshuffled govt, replacing 3 generals with civilians in move to symbolise political normalisation. Opposition coalition 30 Oct contested president’s appointments to elections commission. Govt 13-14 Oct expelled 26 northern Malians suspected of links with Islamist groups.
Guinea
| 1 Oct 2012
Following 27 Aug demonstration authorities arrested 120 opposition militants. Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) head Louceny Camara 5 Sept asked to be relieved from post. National Transition Council passed new CENI law proposed by executive, but controversy began over appointees. Opposition 20 Sept organised rally to demand inclusive negotiation on elections, 21 Sept clashed with govt supporters. Clashes erupted 23 Sept in Fria town 160km NW of Conakry after armed youths attacked suspected black market fuel salesmen, at least 20 injured.
Guinea
| 1 Sep 2012
Security forces, protesters taking part in unauthorised opposition demonstration clashed 27 Aug, police fired tear gas into home of opposition leader Cellou Diallo; opposition announced withdrawal from all state institutions. At least 6 killed 3-4 Aug when security forces fired on villagers protesting Brazilian mining company Vale’s employment of “outside” ethnic groups in Zogota, near N’Zérékoré, SE. Clashes between police, local traders demonstrating against crime, growing insecurity 7 Aug left at least 1 dead, 5 injured in Siguiri. Authorities 7 Aug launched investigation; opposition leaders 12 Aug called for independent probe; President Condé 13 Aug sacked N’Zérekoré and Siguiri prefects; former transitional PM Jean-Marie Doré 21 Aug accused govt of having “planned and carried out killings in cold blood”.
Guinea
| 1 Aug 2012
President Condé 2 July said polls to be held before year-end, calendar to be established with electoral commission and International Francophonie Organisation. Condé 14/18 July met with opposition leaders Mouctar Diallo, Lansana Kouyaté; National Transitional Council Opposition UFDG leader Cellou Dalein Diallo toured Lower, Middle Guinea; several local authorities tried to impede meetings/rallies. Court 2 July charged number of suspects involved in July 2011 attack against Condé’s house, including UFDG VP Oury Bah (in absentia) and Captain Alpha Oumar Diallo “AOB” but acquitted former Chief of Staff Nouhou Thiam, other military associates of former transitional president General Sékouba Konaté; attorney general lodged appeal against decision.
Guinea
| 1 Jul 2012
Controversial loan with South African mining company Palladino revealed 3 June, prompted international criticism, early reimbursement of loan. Authorities ordered removal of roadblocks throughout country after riots over 4 June killing of cabdriver by soldier at Mamou roadblock. Social Guinean Movement 14 June called on govt to disband electoral commission (CENI) in order to resolve voter registration dispute; opposition parties criticised National Transition Council (CNT) for inaction; CNT president 21 June vowed to participate in CENI reform; opposition called on supporters to observe ‘ghost town day’ 28 June to push for CENI reconstitution, warned electoral commission against resuming voter registration without prior political consensus. Territorial Administration Minister Alhassane Condé 23 June reiterated ban on political demonstrations.
Guinea
| 1 Jun 2012
Thousands of opposition demonstrators 10 May resumed protests over govt refusal to organise transparent, credible elections; dozens of demonstrators, policemen wounded. Govt asked electoral commission to suspend controversial voter registration, 13 May organised “giant meeting” where thousands rallied to show support for ruling party Rally of the Guinea People.
Guinea
| 1 May 2012
Future ICC Chief Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda 5 April visited Conakry, said ICC will prosecute those responsible for Sept 2009 massacre if govt fails. Opposition leader Cellou Diallo 2-8 April visited Paris, said Guinea not ready for 8 July elections. Major civil society coalition 13 April called for removal of controversial CENI president. Govt repression of opposition protests at controversial preparations for legislative elections continued; police 19 April fired tear gas at women demonstrating outside CENI HQ, 20 injured. President Condé 27 April announced postponement of elections.
Guinea
| 1 Apr 2012
Following failure of political dialogue over organisation of legislative elections, electoral commission (CENI) 1 March announced poll to be held 8 July. Opposition rally in Conakry 17 March calling for free and fair elections, CENI reform, initially banned and then repressed, dozens detained; arrestees soon released and new opposition rally held peacefully 24 March.
Guinea
| 1 Mar 2012
Mediation by David Gomez ended 21 Feb; dialogue between govt and opposition resumed, Minister of Territorial Administration said elections scheduled for May, opposition said it will prevent polls if better guarantees not given. Judges 1 Feb announced indictment of Colonel Moussa Camara for role in Sept 2009 Conakry massacre, 17 Feb initiated prosecution of 50 civilians, soldiers accused of participating in 19 July attack on President Condé’s residence.
Guinea
| 1 Feb 2012
Political deadlock over legislative elections date continued; ex-Senegalese President and current Head of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie Abdou Diouf 4-6 Jan held series of high-level meetings in attempt to mediate between opposition and govt. Clashes over repeated power cuts in mining town of Kamsar 16 Jan left 1 dead, 30 injured; 2 opposition UFDG members arrested 25 Jan for reported role in violence.
Guinea
| 2 Jan 2012
National electoral commission (CENI) 16 Dec announced suspension of activity until 6 Jan, indefinite postponement of legislative elections scheduled 29 Dec, after meetings with political parties, mediators. Standoff continues within major trade union National Confederation of Guinean Workers as judiciary 16 Dec invalidated 2 competing congresses which elected 2 different leaders. Govt 31 Dec forced about 4,600 soldiers into retirement; fears move could anger army.
Guinea
| 1 Dec 2011
President Condé 15 Nov met opposition leaders, agreed to set up ad hoc commission to guide poll preparation, mentioned possible election postponement; overall little progress on dialogue following opposition’s creation of common front, reiteration of demands 22 Nov. Condé 17 Nov pardoned protesters condemned for participation in 27 Sept demonstration. Guinea Bar Association (GBA) filed complaint against Conakry governor Sékou Camara after 3 Nov arrest of president of rights NGO Foromo Frédéric Loua. Camara appeared in court 16 Nov following demonstration by GBA, 30 Nov declared guilty, fined. Govt 8 Nov issued decree banning all political demonstrations without prior official permission; 12 Nov revoked decree, allowing GBA march to go ahead.
Guinea
| 1 Nov 2011
UNSG Ban 29 Sept called on authorities to avoid excessive use of force following 27 Sept banned opposition protest that killed 4, injured dozens, saw dozens sentenced to jail. Authorities 30 Sept asked Interpol to arrest and transfer Oury Bah, key opposition figure accused of involvement in 19 July attack on President Condé’s residence. Condé 2 Oct said ready to enter talks with opposition; initial suspension of voter list revision 4 Oct welcomed by opposition, but resumed 21 Oct. Electoral commission officials 6 Oct denounced functioning of commission; 1 official sacked 17 Oct. Legislative elections still scheduled 29 Dec. Following clashes between supporters of rival figures within major trade union National Confederation of Guinean Workers (CNTG), police 25 Oct cordoned off CNTG building to prevent further violence.
Guinea
| 1 Oct 2011
Increased govt repression of opposition ahead of Dec legislative elections amid concerns over lack of political dialogue over preparation for polls. 27 Sept opposition demonstration declared illegal by govt, repressed by police; at least 3 killed, around 40 injured in clashes. Police 28 Sept raided opposition strongholds, arrested dozens in capital. Electoral commission 15 Sept announced elections will take place 29 Dec; followed criticism of official silence on opposition demands regarding registration, organisation of polls. President Condé 11 Sept publicly implicated civilians linked to Cellou Dalein Diallo, leader of opposition Union of Demoratic Forces of Guinea, and former transition president General Sékouba Konaté, in 19 July attack on his residence; accused Senegal, Gambia of complicity.
Guinea
| 1 Sep 2011
38 people, including former chief of staff General Thiam, charged in connection with 19 July attacks on President Condé’s home. Leading civil society coalition Guinean Social Movement 10-11 Aug met with govt, pro-govt parties and development partners to discuss controversial organisation of Nov legislative elections. Coalition of opposition parties refused to attend, later met with Condé. Condé 17 Aug appointed Conakry imam and archbishop to head panel on national reconciliation; 15 Aug pardoned 17 opposition activists jailed after April demonstration in support of opposition UFDG leader Cellou Delein Diallo. Group of 19 opposition parties 17 Aug called for parliament to replace members of electoral commission (INEC), due to INEC having missed deadlines during 2010 presidential poll. Opposition leaders 19 Aug announced creation of new coalition, Alliance for Democracy and Progress.
Guinea
| 1 Aug 2011
At least 1 presidential guard killed 19 July during 2 separate attacks on home of President Alpha Condé in Conakry. Security forces 20-21 July arrested 38 people in connection with attacks, including 25 military personnel; most of those arrested have links with former junta leader Sékouba Konaté. Media unions reported govt ban on reporting on attacks, lifted after widespread domestic, international condemnation. Leading opposition politician reported missing since 19 July incident.
Guinea
| 1 Jul 2011
Electoral commission 14 June said parliamentary elections may take place before year-end, pending govt, opposition agreement on voter registration. National Council of Civil Society Organisations 8 June called on govt to tackle corruption, open dialogue with opposition on legislative elections.
Guinea
| 1 Jun 2011
Political tensions remain high as court 12 May handed down 2-year custodial sentences to 3 bodyguards of opposition leader Cellou Diallo following “unlawful” Apr rally, and unidentified men in uniform 11 May raided Diallo’s home in purported search for weapons. At least 25 killed 2 May in ethnic clashes in SE town Galakpaye.
Guinea
| 1 May 2011
Guinea At least 1 killed, several injured 3 Apr as security forces forcibly dispersed rally in support of returning opposition leader Cellou Diallo. Diallo 8 Apr called for release of 67 opposition activists arrested for participation in rally; court 13 Apr jailed 7, handed down lesser sentences to 27 others. Minister of territorial administration 13 Apr announced creation of new electoral commission, electoral register, pledged to hold already overdue legislative elections before year-end.
Guinea
| 1 Apr 2011
Interior Minister Alhassane Condé 14 March proposed late-2011 date for legislative elections, despite constitutional requirement that vote must take place within 6 months of presidential poll, held Nov 2010; said delay necessary due to irregularities in electoral register. At least 3 army recruits killed 8 March in riot at Kissidougou military training camp, reportedly over poor living conditions.
Guinea
| 1 Mar 2011
National Council of Guinean Civil Society Organisations 6 Feb accused President Condé of violating constitution by failing to define schedule for legislative, local elections; constitution stipulates polls should be held within 6 months of presidential election which Condé won in Nov second round.
Guinea
| 1 Feb 2011
Newly-inaugurated President Condé 5 Jan completed appointment of ministers; includes himself as minister of defence, technocrat Mohamed Lamine Fofana as minister of mines and Francois Louceny, Condé’s rival in first round presidential election, as minister of state. Colonel Moussa Thiégboro Camara reappointed 17 Jan to lead fight against drug trade, continuing role held in junta administration. Lt-Col Aboubacar Sidiki Diakite 12 Jan announced desire to return from exile seeking pardon for his commanding role in Sept 2009 army killing and rape of civilians during peaceful demonstration.
Guinea
| 3 Jan 2011
Supreme Court 3 Dec announced final results of 7 Nov run-off presidential election, confirming opposition leader Alpha Condé victor with 52.2% of vote. Rival candidate former PM Cellou Diallo conceded defeat, urged supporters to remain calm. President Condé officially inaugurated 21 Dec as former interim leader General Sékouba Konaté previous week officially retired from army. AU 9 Dec reinstated Guinea’s membership, suspended since 2008 military coup. UN SRSG for West Africa Said Djinnit 17 Dec told UNSC Guinea to be commended for “historic achievement”.
Guinea
| 1 Dec 2010
Election-related violence continued, including with active participation of military. After peaceful 7 Nov second round of presidential election, situation deteriorated 15 Nov following election commission (CENI) preliminary results declaring opposition leader Alpha Condé winner with 52.5% of vote; former PM Cellou Diallo took 47.5%. Clashes between security forces and Diallo supporters protesting results in Conakry and elsewhere 15 Nov descended into 3 days of violence, including systematic attacks by security forces on Diallo’s ethnic Peul supporters; at least 4 dead, 300 injured. Army Chief Nouhou Thiam 17 Nov declared 8-day state of emergency; Condé played down fears of ethnic conflict, saying divisions exaggerated. International election observers stated voting process "appeared free and fair", but Diallo 14 Nov withdrew his Union des Forces Démocratiques de Guinée (UFDG) party officials from vote count, citing electoral fraud, pre-election violence and intimidation. UN OHCHR 19 Nov expressed "deep concern" at excessive use of force by military post-election. PM Doré 27 Nov announced sacking army deputy chief of staff General Aboubakar Sidiki Camara and closure of borders ahead of Supreme Court’s declaration of official results anticipated 2 Dec.
Guinea
| 1 Nov 2010
Violence sparked by further delays to second round of presidential elections saw 1,800 displaced; situation tense ahead of next week’s poll. Election commission’s third postponement of run-off 22 Oct led to 3 days of looting, clashes between rival supporters of presidential candidates Cellou Diallo and Alpha Conde in Conakry and at least 4 other towns. Both candidates 24 Oct called for calm; govt 27 Oct announced new 7 Nov date for polls. UN 28 Oct stated at least 1,800 from Peul ethnic group forced to flee. 19 Oct election-related violence between Diallo supporters and security forces resulted in 2 killed, 29 injured. Conde 28 Oct pulled out of joint tour of country with rival Diallo aimed at easing pre-election tensions, citing opposition from supporters. Govt 11 Oct said both presidential candidates Cellou Diallo and Alpha Conde agreed on post-election power-sharing deal to ease peaceful transition to civilian rule. President Konate 19 Oct appointed General Siaka Toumani Sangare as new election commission head; former head Louceny Camara sentenced by Conakry court 22 Oct to 12-month prison term for vote-rigging in June first round poll. Burkina Faso President and chief mediator Blaise Compaore met separately with presidential candidates 30 Oct emphasising their responsibility in maintaining security.
Guinea
| 1 Oct 2010
Guinea Planned 19 Sept second round of presidential election thrown into disarray following slow progress addressing technical problems that marred first round. Charges against election commission (CENI) President Ben Sekou Sylla and director of planning Elhaj Boubacar Diallo 10 Sept raised both legal, political controversies; both sentenced to 12 months in prison. Election campaign in Conakry saw violent clashes 11, 12 Sept between rival supporters of presidential candidates Alpha Conde and Cellou Diallo: 1 killed, dozens injured. Interim govt suspended campaigning, banned demonstrations. Following 13 Sept death in Paris hospital of CENI President Sylla, election commission 15 Sept postponed run-off election citing lack of preparation; interim Guinean President Konate claimed “republic in danger” due to ethnic, political divisions. UNSC 17 Sept, heads of UN peacekeeping missions across W Africa 30 Sept urged prompt announcement of new date; ECOWAS 17 Sept called on candidates to honour 3 Sept agreement to run peaceful campaigns. 24 Sept nomination of new CENI head Lounceny Camara and announcement of 10 Oct run-off date sparked renewed controversy late month as Cellou Diallo refused to participate claiming Camara supports rival candidate Alpha Conde; date yet to be confirmed by Konate.
Guinea
| 1 Sep 2010
Announcement of date for 2nd round of presidential elections allayed concerns about delays in process, but observers flag divisive nature of polls, possible exacerbation of latent ethnic tensions. Ad hoc commission tasked to investigate flaws in 27 June first round submitted recommendations end July; election commission subsequently requested deferral of 2nd round. Official mediator Blaise Compaore visiting 3 Aug urged 2nd round to take place as soon as possible. Following 3 Aug Supreme Court ruling, presidential decree confirmed 19 Sept date for 2nd round. PM seeking change to electoral code, called for enhanced role of Ministry of Territorial Administration in election organisation; triggered criticism from various quarters, including electoral commission, lead candidate Cellou Diallo.
Guinea
| 1 Aug 2010
Cellou Diallo (UFDG) and Alpha Condé (RPG) qualified for second round of presidential polls with 43% and 18% of vote respectively following 27 June elections. Diallo signed agreement with 3rd-placed Sidya Touré (UFR) 28 July. Delays in vote counting fuelled claims of fraud and tensions: police 5 July used teargas against protesters in Conakry; 20 candidates challenged poll results, but Supreme Court 20 July confirmed numbers. PM Doré 17 July said security forces foiled suspected plot to destabilize country, arrested suspects, gave no further details. President Konaté 1 July rehabilitated 16 officers accused of 1985 coup plot; 3 July promoted all soldiers between corporal and major by one rank, 14 July promoted regional governors.
- “Diallo forms alliance for Guinea presidential run-off”, VOA, 29 July 2010.
- For latest report, see Africa Briefing N°66, Guinea: Military Rule Must End, 16 Oct. 2009.
Guinea
| 1 Jul 2010
Presidential elections held 27 June after early month registration of 3mn voters and 18 June test votes in Côte d’Ivoire. Polls overall peaceful and turnout high but hampered by logistic problems, delays. Several candidates alleged widespread fraud; rejected by electoral commission. Candidate and former PM Cellou Dalein Diallo 29 June denounced irregularities in Conakry. ECOWAS called for calm after Supreme Court 30 June extended till 2 July deadline for electoral commission to announce provisional results. International observers generally satisfied with conduct of vote. 2nd round scheduled 11 July. 3 killed 24 June in pre-electoral clashes between URF and UDF supporters near Conakry after National Transition Council (NTC) President Serah Diallo 11 June predicted possible electoral violence. About 10 high-ranking army officers released 14 June after 4-day detention under embezzlement charges; detainees included Col Sanoh, former chief of staff and aide of ex-junta chief Camara. Army chief Gen Nouhou Thiam 16 June said army would not have immunity for involvement in Sept 2009 massacre. NTC 21 June launched national reconciliation project.
Guinea
| 1 Jun 2010
Interim President Konaté 4 May signed decree putting new constitution into force and 6 May set presidential election date of 27 June; International Contact Group on Guinea 16 May warned against ethnic campaigning; 40-day electoral campaign started peacefully 17 May; 24 candidates include long-time opposition figure Alpha Condé (RPG), former PM Sidra Touré, Francois Fall, Celou Dalien Diallo and Lansana Koyaté. Konaté 28 May denied supporting RPG candidate Condé. Army chief col. Noukou Thiam 19 May guaranteed army’s neutrality and urged politicians to refrain from agitation. Azaro movement, led by Dadis Camara’s uncle Etienne Ouomo, allegedly threatened to prevent polls in Dadis’ home province (Guinée forestière) unless Dadis allowed to return. ICC delegation in Conakry 24 May to investigate Sept 2009 violence.
Guinea
| 1 May 2010
Interim President Konaté 21 Apr removed armed forces chief Col. Oumar Sanoh, perceived ally of former junta leader Dadis Camara; 22 Apr removed navy, air force heads. Followed 1 Apr arrest of several soldiers accused of inciting mutiny at army training camp in Kaleya. Interim PM Dore 28 Apr warned Dadis supporters were secretly planning his return to country. Interim govt 29 Apr restored power to Supreme Court. ECOWAS SR for security sector reform (SSR) in Guinea Lamine Cissé 14 Apr said process on track but overall reform would take “at least 2 years”. Govt minister Nawa Damey 12 Apr urged parties to end “unauthorised demonstrations” in Conakry; followed series of opposition protests in capital. Rights groups pushed for 27 June elections to go ahead as planned.
Guinea
| 1 Apr 2010
Accepting electoral commission (CENI) proposal, transitional govt 7 March announced presidential elections would be held 27 June, with potential 2nd round 18 July. Interim President Konaté 14 March barred transitional govt members from standing, as with junta. CENI 10 March also confirmed census of Guineans abroad would resume 22 March after process suspended 28 Sept. Reports Konaté early month threatened military that moves to sabotage transition would be punished. 5 former ministers jailed by junta for embezzlement under President Conte released 4 March. Lawyers launched week-long strike 11 March to protest govt interference in narco-trafficking cases. Evidence emerged 23 aides of Lt. Aboubacar “Toumba” Diakité, arrested after Dec shooting, tortured in detention. ICTJ 3 March condemned junta’s investigation into 28 Sept massacre for under-representing violence, Human Rights Watch 4 March called for govt redress for victims. Mining company Rio Tinto announced new deal with Chinese state-backed metals group to develop the large Simandou iron ore project.
Guinea
| 1 Mar 2010
PM Doré 15 Feb appointed 34-person interim govt comprising opposition, trade unionists and former junta members. Electoral commission 21 Feb proposed presidential polls for 27 June, welcomed by ECOWAS and Contact Group for Guinea 22 Feb. Doré called for elections support from donors. Govt inquiry into 28 Sept massacre issued report 2 Feb alleging Aboubacar “Toumba” Diakité, presidential guard member accused of shooting ex-junta leader Camara in Dec, was solely responsible for Sept killings. Diakité 5 Feb announced he had been following orders and was willing to face justice but not in Guinean court. ICC assessment mission arrived mid-month, 19 Feb announced Sept killings could amount to “crimes against humanity” and pledged to press forward with preliminary investigation. During mission, Doré stated Guinea’s judiciary was unfit to undertake prosecutions properly.
|
|
|
Guinea
| 1 Feb 2010
Talks between interim junta leader Konaté, junta leader Dadis Camara and regional mediator Burkina Faso President Campaoré held in Ouagadougou mid-month, before breakthrough “Ouagadougou Agreement” deal announced 15 Jan, creating unity govt led by PM from civilian opposition coalition Forces Vives, and elections within 6 months in which no junta members eligible to stand. Dadis earlier arrived in Ouagadougou still visibly injured, with several tense days in Conakry including pro-Dadis demonstrations. Dadis agreed to support transition and remain in Burkina Faso. AU 16 Jan hailed deal, though AU Peace and Security Council stressed Guinea’s suspension from body would remain until constitutional order fully restored. Opposition figure Jean-Marie Doré appointed PM 18 Jan (sworn in 26 Jan) and Rabiatou Serah Diallo (union leader) and Mamadouba Toto Camara (junta VP) appointed Vice-PMs. Talks between new interim govt, UN, ECOWAS started 21 Jan in Conakry to discuss, inter alia, ECOWAS military and civilian deployment. Prior to deal, U.S. 1 Jan suspended Guinea from trade preferences and U.S./French delegates 4 Jan held talks with Konaté.
|
|
|
Guinea
| 4 Jan 2010
Junta leader Dadis Camara 3 Dec shot and wounded by senior presidential guard member Aboubacar “Toumba” Diakité at military HQ in Conakry. Camara flown to Morocco 4 Dec for treatment amid speculation he was seriously injured, denied by ruling CNDD. Diakité 16 Dec admitted shooting, citing moves by Camara to blame him for Sept massacre. Dozens arrested in connection with shooting, also reports of killings and torture. Defence Minister Konaté took up temporary leadership of junta, 9 Dec urged military unity. Talks between junta and regional leaders resumed 13 Dec after hiatus, but without breakthrough. Opposition coalition Forces Vives continued strong criticism of Burkinabe president Compaoré’s mediation. Police 29 Dec announced all 12 soldiers jailed Dec 2008 for resisting Camara coup had been released. UN commission of inquiry into Sept massacre issued report 21 Dec calling for ICC trials for Camara and aides. Conakry tense, with “red beret” presidential forces reportedly targeting Peuhl ethnic group in suburbs. CNDD officials accused France of orchestrating Camara attack, prompting angry exchanges between capitals. Regional, international condemnation of junta remained strong; U.S. 23 Dec ended Guinea trade preferences.
|
|
|
Guinea
| 1 Dec 2009
10 activists arrested in Conakry late Oct following 5-day hunger strike, calling for justice for victims of 28 Sept violence and dialogue to resolve political crisis. Regional mediator Burkina Faso President Compaoré starting 3 Nov held separate meetings with delegations from ruling CNDD council and opposition/civil society coalition Forces Vives in Ouagadougou, 19 Nov recommended formation of 10-month transitional power-sharing govt with junta leader Camara as interim president and retaining right to stand in presidential polls. Proposal accepted by CNDD junta, strongly opposed by Forces Vives. Reports emerged late Oct junta imported $45m in arms from Ukraine, allegedly linked to support from South African mercenaries protecting Presidential Guard and training ethnic militia; U.S. urged South Africa to remove mercenaries, Pretoria pledged to investigate. Sanctions regime expanded as AU 7 Nov imposed targeted restrictions on junta leaders. UN International Committee of Inquiry into Sept atrocities began investigation 25 Nov.
|
|
|
Guinea
| 1 Nov 2009
Following 28 Sept massacre, military junta 30 Sept called for formation of unity government, unheeded by opposition. Also announced commission of inquiry, rejected by rights groups. Opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo, injured in late Sept attacks, arrived in Senegal for treatment 1 Oct. 2-day general strike held 12-13 Oct amid heavy security in Conakry. Police reported 12 murdered in “revenge attacks” targeting officials over month. Further signs of tension within junta’s ranks: 3 civilian ministers resigned 12-15 Oct; skirmishes reported early month at military HQ following move by senior military official to arrest aide to de facto leader Dadis Camara. International pressure on junta increased. UN delegation arrived 16 Oct to establish commission of enquiry into Sept violence; Camara agreed to cooperate. Contact Group for Guinea met in Abuja 12 Oct, called for junta to step down, establishment of transitional authority, sanctions. ECOWAS imposed arms embargo 17 Oct, backed by AU; EU 27 Oct imposed arms embargo, targeted sanctions. ICC opened preliminary investigations into violence 15 Oct. Govt signed $7bn deal with Hong Kong-based Chinese mining company; Beijing distanced itself from deal.
|
|
|
Guinea
| 1 Oct 2009
At least 157 killed when security forces opened fire on large demonstrations in capital 28 Sept protesting junta leader Dadis Camara’s candidacy in upcoming presidential polls and military govt; reports of extreme sexual violence by security forces against protesters; several opposition figures, including presidential contender and former PM Cellou Dalein Diallo, reportedly arrested. Authorities banned “subversive” gatherings in wake. UNSC, AU, EU, France and U.S. condemned violence. Rallies followed mid-month announcement by Rally for Defence of the Republic party, formed to back Dadis after Dec 2008 coup, nominating Dadis as candidate in Jan election; now widely believed he intends to run. International Contact Group 3 Sept called on Dadis not to stand, while AU 18 Sept threatened to impose sanctions in Oct. Up to 20,000 rallied in earlier anti-Dadis protests in Diallo’s former stronghold of Labe, north of Conakry, 23 Sept; Diallo, expected to stand for opposition United Democratic Forces of Guinea (UDFG), earlier welcomed back from European trip by large crowds in Conakry. 300 demonstrated in Conakry 23 Sept against AU sanctions.
|
|
|
Guinea
| 1 Sep 2009
Junta leader Dadis Camara 17 Aug announced presidential elections would be held 31 Jan 2010 (pushing back initial Nov date) and parliamentary elections March 2010; later stated his candidacy depends on “will of the people”. U.S. embassy expressed disappointment over postponement, called on junta members not to contest poll; ruling CNDD denounced statement as external interference. Several hundred rallied in Conakry 22 Aug in support of Dadis. New group - Dadis Must Stay – formed early month.
|
|
|
Guinea
| 1 Aug 2009
Military junta 11 July placed army on maximum alert at all border posts, alleging drug traffickers based in neighbouring countries preparing attack on Guinea; Liberia, Guinea-Bissau and Senegal dismissed accusations, while several national and international observers, including AU, expressed scepticism over alleged plot as possible diversion from transition process. Junta leader Dadis Camara threatened to arrest anyone publicising doubts about credibility of threats.
|
|
|
Guinea
| 1 Jul 2009
Junta chief Moussa Dadis Camara 11 June announced presidential elections would be held as scheduled in Nov and that he would not stand despite earlier indications. Armed forces chief in 8 June televised statement requested Camara delay vote. Over 300 judiciary staff 8 June launched general strike to protest parallel military tribunals under Camara; minister for conflicts sacked 13 June. 20 people, including army chief General Camara, his son and other ex-senior officers, arrested for drug trafficking 11 June. Ex-PM Souare reportedly arrested late month for embezzlement. International Contact Group meeting 20-21 June in Conakry condemned deteriorating security and economy.
|
|
|
Guinea
| 1 Jun 2009
Junta leader Capt Camara, seeking to ease fears ahead of early-May International Contact Group meeting, announced he would not stand in Dec presidential and legislative elections. Contact Group welcomed electoral preparations, but amid concerns over the govt’s capacity to meet its side of financial contributions and delays in agreed creation of transition oversight council. Signs of increasing dissatisfaction with Camara govt: over 1,000 protested in Conakry 6 May, with 2 wounded in gunfire by security forces; justice officials 13 May threatened to strike unless govt halt parallel military justice system. Govt announced $38m recovered in anti-corruption campaign, pledged to extend reform effort. 30 ambassadors recalled and 2 ministers fired early-month.
|
|
|
-
-
For background, see Crisis Group Africa Briefing N°58, Guinea: The Transition Has Only Just Begun, 5 March 2009.
Guinea
| 1 May 2009
Fears for stability increased with further strong-arm tactics by ruling CNDD junta and signs “interim” leader Captain Dadis Camara preparing to hang on to power. Camara in angry 15 Apr speech threatened to leave military to stand in next elections, called on politicians to respect CNDD authority. Over 20 soldiers arrested 23 Apr for alleged coup plot; troops earlier deployed across capital and shots fired at Conakry military camp. National audit commission VP arrested as CNDD continued popular anti-corruption drive. Rights groups expressed concerns over arbitrary detentions, attacks on civilians since installation of new junta Dec 2008.
|
|
|
-
-
For background, see Crisis Group Africa Briefing N°58, Guinea: The Transition Has Only Just Begun, 5 March 2009.
Guinea
| 1 Apr 2009
Coalition group Forces Vives early month submitted proposal to ruling junta for elections in late 2009: ruling CNDD agreed 28 March to hold legislative elections 11 Oct, presidential poll 13 Dec, but doubts persist over commitment to transition to civilian rule. Former PM Souaré and 2 ex-mines ministers arrested 23 March after junta ordered 4 former ministers to repay $5m allegedly embezzled under previous administration. International Contact Group on Guinea met for 2nd time 16 March: called on govt to negotiate with Forces Vives to establish transitional govt, confirm electoral timetable. EU same day proposed talks with junta on resuming EU aid, conditional on steps to restore rule of law.
|
|
|
Items 1 - 50 of 114