Former Guinean President Alpha Condé has expressed solidarity with the people of Siguiri, in northeastern Guinea, following violent incidents related to artisanal gold mining. In a message, he conveyed his deep concern and indignation over the "brutal repression" against populations who, he claims, only demand the right to live with dignity on their own land. Condé, who was ousted in September 2021, pledged support to families of victims, the injured, and those whose economic activities were abruptly halted.
Alpha Condé defended artisanal gold mining, describing it as an ancestral practice that has been part of Siguiri's traditions for centuries. He argued that it is historically unjust to portray local populations as intruders on their own land, as many generations have relied on this activity for their livelihood. Condé questioned how this practice, which coexisted with industrial mining, suddenly became a public order problem. He instead pointed to the uncontrolled expansion of mechanized mining in Siguiri and Mandiana, which he said occurred without proper environmental regulation or transparent administrative oversight.
The former president made serious accusations against the entourage and family of General Mamadi Doumbouya, suggesting they are involved in sponsoring foreign private interests in the sector. Condé called for an independent investigation to determine who authorized, protected, or facilitated these activities and who benefited from them. He also demanded condemnation of the reported violence against civilians, including deaths, injuries, and destruction of property, and independent investigations into these incidents.
Alpha Condé criticized the designation of foreign artisanal miners as scapegoats, recalling that Guineans also engage in artisanal mining in neighboring countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ghana. He emphasized that African fraternity cannot be a selective value, dependent on individual interests. Condé also targeted the sovereignist discourse of the transitional authorities, stating that support for the coup leaders did not imply a blank check or permission to allocate national resources to private interests.
The former president acknowledged the state's duty to regulate the mining sector but argued that this does not mean exclusion. He emphasized that enforcing the law does not justify violence. Condé expressed hope that Siguiri's gold will become a shared wealth, rather than a curse, for those living in the region. He urged for a more inclusive approach to managing the region's resources.
Alpha Condé's statement reflects his concerns about the impact of mining on local communities and the environment. He argued that the recent violence and repression are symptoms of a broader issue: the struggle for control over natural resources. Condé's call for an independent investigation and his criticism of the current authorities' handling of the situation reflect his ongoing engagement with Guinea's politics and economy.
The situation in Siguiri remains tense, with many residents and artisanal miners feeling threatened by the expansion of mechanized mining and the response of the authorities. Alpha Condé's message has resonated with some, who see him as a champion of the rights of local communities. However, the transitional government's response to his allegations and demands remains to be seen.
Key points
- Alpha Condé demands an independent investigation into the violence against artisanal miners in Siguiri.
- The former president defends artisanal gold mining as an ancestral practice that should be allowed to coexist with industrial mining.
- Condé criticizes the transitional authorities' handling of the situation, accusing them of prioritizing private interests over the rights of local communities.
