About WACSOF

The West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF) is the umbrella network of civil society organizations from the 15 member countries of ECOWAS. WACSOF envisions a well organized and vibrant civil society in West Africa and a stable and prosperous West African region.

Situation Monitoring Center

Guinea’s FNDC Opposes Extension of Transition

24 May 2024
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Categories: Situation Monitoring Center

Issue Brief # 02.05.24

Date: 23.05.2024

The Issue:

At a conference on Tuesday 21st May 2024, the National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC) reiterated its firm stance against any potential extension of the ongoing military-led transition beyond the set deadline of 31st December. Ibrahima Diallo, the FNDC’s operations lead and spokesperson, emphasized the organization’s resolute opposition to prolonging the transition under Mamadi Doumbouya’s leadership. He unequivocally stated, “We say no to this ambition. And as we did during Alpha Condé’s third term saga, we are prepared to resist any attempts at extending the transition period.” Diallo further elucidated that the FNDC is initiating a comprehensive consultation process encompassing all stakeholders such as political entities, trade unions, civil society organizations, journalists and conscientious citizens. This collaboration aims to forge a unified front to thwart any efforts aimed at prolonging the transition indefinitely.

Even though the President, Mamadi Doumbouya, has not issued any statement regarding a prolongation of the transition beyond 31st December, the FNDC and several sections of the Guinean Citizenry seem to be prepared to mobilize against any development to that effect.

The FNDC is a citizen’s coalition and movement in the Republic of Guinea comprising various political parties, civil society groups, and trade unions. Its commitment is aimed at protecting constitutional order, democratic principles and guaranteeing citizen participation in the governance of the country, in opposition to any unelected or undemocratic regime.

WACSOF’s Call to Action:

  1. Urge the Guinea Military Junta to respect the constitution and the will of the people by not prolonging the on-going political transition beyond the stipulated 31st December 2024 time limit.
  2. Calls for continued collaboration and consultation among all citizens’ groups in Guinea to collectively resist any attempts to extend the political transition against the will of the people.
  3. Urge that any actions to be taken in response to alleged attempts to extend the political transition should remain peaceful, in line with democratic norms, and that dialogue remains the preferred path to resolving disagreements. It is essential to maintain stability and peace during this critical period of transition in Guinea.

WACSOF will continue to monitor the evolving situation in Guinea and provide updates on any developments related to the transition process as events unfold.

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HOW PEACEFUL PROTESTERS IN GUINEA BISSAU WERE ARRESTED

22 May 2024
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Categories: Situation Monitoring Center

The Issue

On Saturday 18th May 2024, a group of peaceful protesters from the Front Popular, a political movement in Guinea Bissau were arrested by security forces in Bissau. Acting on order of the Minister of the Interior, the security forces disrupted a scheduled peaceful demonstration and proceeded to detain numerous protesters, including the leaders of the organization.

The peaceful march was organized with the objective of demanding the restoration of the rule of law and democracy, as well as addressing the pressing issue of high food prices. The arrests escalated into uncontrolled violence, including the beating and arrest of individuals not involved in the demonstration.

Response by Civil Society:

The Network of Human Rights Defenders in Guinea-Bissau has issued a statement denouncing the abusive actions of the security forces in Guinea Bissau sanctioned by the Interior Ministry. It also calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained during the demonstration.

Call to Action

  • Civil Society must demand for the protection of civil liberties, especially the need to safeguard the rights of citizens to express their grievances peacefully. Civil society in Guinea Bissau must actively resist any and all actions that suppress these rights.
  • The Government of Guinea Bissau should investigate the issues thoroughly and hold those responsible for the excessive use of force against peaceful demonstrators, particularly the Minister of the Interior and the Secretary of State, to equity.

For inquiries and further information, please contact us at:

West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF)

8, Jaba Close, Opposite FCDA Minister’s Gate

Area 11, Garki Abuja – Nigeria

Tel: +234 903 393 9809

Email: info@wacsofoscao.org

Website: www.wacsofoscao.org 

The West African Civil Society Forum’s (WACSOF) Situation Alert serves to keep the public informed about the latest developments occurring across the West African region and how they affect civil society in general. Through concise updates, it aims to raise awareness about critical issues around, human rights, democracy, social justice, peace, security and stability. By disseminating timely information, the Situation Alert empowers individuals and organizations to stay informed and take necessary actions to address pressing concerns in the region.

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