What You Need to Know
The African Union has announced Guinea’s readiness to regain its membership following recent presidential elections, which were deemed a positive step in the country’s political transition. The AU’s Commissioner praised the progress made and called for the lifting of sanctions imposed after a military coup in 2021, emphasizing the need for national dialogue and constitutional respect.
Africa-Press. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, announced that Guinea is ready to regain its seat within the continental organization following its presidential elections, which were described as a positive step in the political transition process.
This statement came during a meeting with Guinea’s Foreign Minister, Morissanda Kouyaté, at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Mahamat praised the “positive path” the country is taking and the progress made towards a “comprehensive transition based on national dialogue and respect for constitutional order,” according to a statement released on Thursday.
The meeting followed the recent swearing-in of Guinea’s President Mamadi Doumbouya, who won the elections held in early December with 86.72% of the votes, according to results announced by the Supreme Court.
Doumbouya came to power through a military coup that ousted former President Alpha Condé in September 2021, leading to Guinea’s suspension from the African Union and the imposition of sanctions.
Call to Lift Sanctions
The Chairperson emphasized that Guinea is ready for full return to the “African family,” urging the AU and the international community to consider lifting the sanctions imposed since the coup. He added that this step would create “favorable conditions for implementing a roadmap for state rebuilding and improving citizens’ livelihoods.”
Mahamat previously noted the “maturity of the Guinean people” who voted in a peaceful atmosphere, commending the commitment of various parties to ensure the electoral process adhered to international standards.
He also called for leveraging Guinea and Gabon’s experiences to support other transitional pathways across the continent, while Minister Kouyaté expressed “deep gratitude” for the African Union’s support, reaffirming his country’s commitment to full reintegration into the organization.
Guinea’s political landscape has been tumultuous, especially following the military coup in September 2021 that ousted President Alpha Condé. This led to the suspension of Guinea’s membership in the African Union and the imposition of sanctions. The recent presidential elections, held in December 2023, marked a significant step towards restoring democratic governance and stability in the country, with Mamadi Doumbouya winning a substantial majority of the votes. The AU’s support is crucial for Guinea’s reintegration into the continental body and for fostering a stable political environment.
