By Politico staff writer
Leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have in a statement released over the weekend deplored the violence of last Thursday and Friday in which protesters clashed with the security forces in the capital Conakry, leading to deaths and injuries.
ECOWAS called for the release of those detained and that prompt investigations are conducted into what led to the clashes and avoid a recurrence and also bringing “the perpetrators to justice, in accordance with the law”.
The regional bloc appealed for inclusive and broader dialogue involving the Guinean authorities, Political Leaders, and Civil Society, to de-escalate the tension and work towards agreeing on a reasonable calendar for a return to constitutional rule.
ECOWAS stressed its commitment to supporting efforts by the Transition government and the Guinean people through its mediation initiatives.
Protesters set up roadblocks along some areas of Conakry, burning tires and then engaging the Police in running battles. Initial reports said one person died, but the National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC) which organised the demonstrations put the number higher.
Colonel Mamady Doumbouya’s toppling of the civilian government of President Alpha Conde on the 5th of September 2021 sparked wild scenes of jubilation by civilians across Guinea. But the coup was immediately condemned by the United Nations, ECOWAS, the European Union ECOWAS, and African Union.
FNDC in recent months voiced opposition to the Transitional Government, arguing that they were not included in the process of establishing it. Tension started mounting after three FNDC leaders were arrested and detained briefly. FNDC and other political groups say the 2025 timeline by the junta for a return to civilian rule were too long, a view shared by ECOWAS who wanted a 24- month period for the country’s return to civilian rule.
