Gunfire and military vehicles in the government district of the capital Conakry suggest a coup attempt in the West African country. President Condé is said to be in custody, diplomats are calling for peaceful talks.
After an alleged attempted coup in Guinea, West Africa, UN Secretary General António Guterres condemned “any takeover of government by force of arms”. Guterres called for the immediate release of President Alpha Condé on Sunday evening on Twitter. According to a statement from the British Embassy in Conakry, there had been ongoing exchanges of fire in several locations in the capital during the day. British Ambassador David McIlroy condemned “the attempt to remove the President of Guinea by force” from office on Twitter.
Several initially unverifiable videos were circulating on social media that Condé is said to have been overthrown. A video with the state broadcaster’s logo featured several men in military uniforms and with the national flag – one of whom claimed the government had been deposed. He also said the constitution was suspended and the country’s borders were closed. In another video, Condé himself was seen with men in military uniform. The whereabouts of the 83-year-old president was initially unclear.
The French-language broadcaster TV5 Monde and other media reported that the Guinea Ministry of Defense said in the afternoon that insurgents had been repulsed by the Presidential Guard and other security forces. An eyewitness told the German Press Agency that the situation was very tense. There were firefights, especially near the presidential palace in the Kaloum district. The military is said to be patrolling the streets of Conakry.
The African Union also issued a statement condemning “any violent takeover” and calling for Condé to be released. British Ambassador McIlroy said that all parties are being called on to engage in constructive dialogue.