Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Conakry (Agenzia Fides)- Guinea is again in a state of general strike. Unions and Opposition members announced the strike today 12 February after clashes between police and demonstrators protesting against the appointment of Eugène Camara as the new Premier.
In the clashes at least 23 were killed and many injured. The appointment of a Prime Minister was one of the conditions put by the Opposition to stop the general strike which had paralysed Guinea in January (see Fides 6 February 2007). Previous disorder caused the deaths of 59 people.
On Friday 9 February President Lansana Conté announced the name of Camara, causing a reaction in various parts of the country, many consider Camara too close to the President. Camara in fact until recently was Minister of Presidential Affairs, whereas the agreement stipulated that the new Prime Minister would be an impartial figure. The Union leaders refused to recognise the Premier and called for President Conté to resign.
Trouble began when the appointment of Camara was announced and demonstrators took to the streets of the capital Conakry, attacking government buildings and erecting barricades of burning car tires. In clashes with the police the demonstrators threw stones, while vandals sacked homes and government offices. The police responded shooting tear gas and rubber pellets.
After a weekend of disorder, an apparent calm reigns in Conakry. Streets are deserted, offices and shops closed and all roads leading to the capital have been blocked by the police.
International observers are concerned after the failure of the agreement between the presidency and the Opposition and fear there is little hope for negotiations to resume. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 12/2/2007 righe 29 parole 328)
