By Preston Slami Panyonnoh
Former Guinean President Alpha Condé has praised citizens across Guinea for what he called their “massive and impressive boycott” of the September 21 referendum organized by the country’s ruling junta.
In a speech released on Sunday, Condé congratulated Guineans for what he described as a “resounding victory of the people,” saying the empty polling stations showed a nationwide rejection of the vote, which opposition groups had urged people to shun.
“From Kassa to Yomou, in the municipalities of Conakry, in the towns and villages of the interior, you have responded with courage and dignity,” Condé said, likening the action to the historic “No” vote of September 28, 1958, when Guinea chose independence over continued French rule.
He accused the authorities of trying to “confiscate our sovereignty” and called the referendum “a masquerade,” but insisted Guineans had made their position clear despite alleged fraud and ballot stuffing.
Condé also criticized some foreign media outlets for failing to report what he called a “popular victory,” urging Guineans to remain united and steadfast in their push for democracy and constitutional order.
“It is time for national unity, perseverance and vigilance,” he said. “Together we will overcome oppression. Together we will lift Guinea up.”
The former leader closed his remarks with a call for solidarity: “Long live the Republic! Long live free and dignified Guinea! Long live the unity of the sovereign people of Guinea!”
