Category Archives: África

The historical roots of Guinea’s latest coup by Elizabeth Schmidt

África, África Ocidental, Crise Política, Golpe, Guiné

Via: The Washington Post

On Sept. 5, a young army officer seized power in the West African Republic of Guinea, staging the country’s third military coup since independence from France in 1958. Like previous coup leaders, Col. Mamady Doumbouya claimed to be saving the country from a corrupt, brutal dictatorship. Decrying the broken promises and corruption of the Alpha Condé government, Doumbouya dissolved the parliament, suspended the constitution and promised to restore democracy after an 18-month transition period. During that time, the military would hold power and produce a new constitution. In explaining the coup, Western media coverage has largely overlooked the historical context, ignoring the political, economic and social structures at the root of popular discontent and the roles of French colonialism, exploitation by international mining companies and Western counterterrorism initiatives in precipitating military action. Understanding that history is critical to understanding recent events.

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Guinea coup: President Alpha Conde detained by military

África, África Ocidental, Crise Política, Golpe

Via: CGTN Africa

Guinea’s President Alpha Conde has been detained by special forces led by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya. The coup leader announced the dissolution of the government, suspension of the constitution and the closure of the country’s borders. He said the army had been forced to act because of poverty, endemic corruption, abuse of power and a lack of respect for democratic principles. The announcement followed heavy gunfire near the presidential palace in the capital Conakry.

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Tunisia’s president extends suspension of parliament

África, Crise Política, Tunísia

Via: Reuters Africa

Tunisian President Kais Saied on Monday extended the suspension of parliament until further notice, the presidency said, after last month dismissing his prime ministerand assuming executive authority in a move opponents branded a coup. Saied also extended the suspension of the immunity of members of parliament, the presidency said, adding Saied will give a speech to the nation in coming days, without giving more details. A month after Saied’s sudden intervention, he has not yet appointed a new prime minister or announced a roadmap demanded by Western allies and key players in Tunisia, including the powerful UGTT Union.

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