ECOWAS condemns Guinea coup and demands return to constitutional rule

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned Sunday’s coup in Guinea and demanded swift return to constitutional rule.

The special military forces who staged an uprising in Guinea’s capital on Sunday have said in a short broadcast on state television that they have dissolved the constitution and the government in the West African state. A footages shared on social media on Sunday apparently showed President Alpha Conde being surrounded by soldiers.

Nana Akufo-Addo, the chairperson of ECOWAS in a statement condemn the action of the military and call for a swift return to democratic rule.

“ECOWAS notes with great concern the recent political developments which have occurred in Conakry, capital of the Republic of Guinea.

ECOWAS condemns unreservedly the attempted coup of Sunday, September 5, 2021. ECOWAS demands respect for the physical safety of the President of the Republic, Professor Alpha Condé, and his immediate and unconditional release, as well as that of all arrested persons.

ECOWAS also demands a return to constitutional order on pain of sanctions. ECOWAS reaffirms its objection to any unconstitutional political change. We ask the Guinean defense and security forces to remain in a constitutional posture, and express our solidarity with the Guinean people and their Government.”