Antonio Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, has expressed strong condemnation over the military takeover that occurred in Guinea on Sunday.
The head of the elite national army unit, Mamady Doumbouya, confirmed that the President, Alpha Condé, had been taken into custody, accusing his government of trampling on the rights of citizens and disrespecting democratic principles.
Doumbouya also announced the closure of the country’s land borders and the dissolution of the government.
I AM PERSONALLY FOLLOWING THE SITUATION IN GUINEA VERY CLOSELY. I STRONGLY CONDEMN ANY TAKEOVER OF THE GOVERNMENT BY FORCE OF THE GUN AND CALL FOR THE IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF PRESIDENT ALPHA CONDE.
— ANTÓNIO GUTERRES (@ANTONIOGUTERRES) SEPTEMBER 5, 2021
The controversial re-election of Condé for a third term in office amid violent protests in October 2020 had sparked widespread condemnation.
The President had changed the constitution to allow him to serve another term, despite stiff opposition.
Condé’s decision had resulted in repeated protests, leading to the deaths of dozens of people.
The UN Secretary-General and other world leaders have called for calm and respect for democratic principles in the country.
