The Guinean political class is mourning the loss of Sidya Touré, a prominent figure who passed away on September 26, 2026, in Paris at the age of 81. Cellou Dalein Diallo, president of the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG), has paid a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and colleague. Sidya Touré is remembered as an exceptional statesman and a competent technocrat who played a significant role in shaping Guinea's economy and politics.
Cellou Dalein Diallo and Sidya Touré shared a long history of collaboration, dating back to the 1990s when they worked together in the government after the events of February 2 and 3, 1996. During this period, they undertook several foreign missions to strengthen Guinea's economic relations with its partners, including visits to Washington, Brussels, and Paris. Their partnership extended beyond politics, with both men sharing liberal convictions and working together on various campaigns.
Sidya Touré's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant accomplishments, including the resumption of relations with Bretton Woods institutions, continued reforms, efforts to address the electricity crisis, and the revival of economic growth. Cellou Dalein Diallo fondly recalls their time together, describing Sidya Touré as an "homme d'État au parcours exceptionnel" and a "technocrate compétent et rigoureux." Their shared experiences and struggles have created a lasting bond between the two men.
The two politicians continued to work together on various initiatives, including their alliance during the second round of the 2010 presidential election and their participation in the creation of the Collective of Political Parties, which later became the Republican Opposition. However, their shared destiny was also marked by challenges and difficulties, including the struggles faced by their political parties and their temporary exile in Côte d'Ivoire.
Cellou Dalein Diallo's tribute to Sidya Touré goes beyond politics, highlighting the personal loss he has suffered. He describes Sidya Touré as an "ami, un compagnon de route et de lutte" with whom he shared strong convictions and a deep attachment to Guinea. The UFDG president emphasizes that their bond transcended political differences, making Sidya Touré's passing a significant loss for him personally.
Sidya Touré had been living in exile in Côte d'Ivoire since 2022, after his home was repossessed by the Guinean authorities. Despite his physical distance, he continued to be engaged in politics, and his legacy will be remembered by his colleagues and the people of Guinea. Cellou Dalein Diallo's heartfelt tribute is a testament to the impact Sidya Touré had on those who knew him.
As the Guinean political class continues to mourn the loss of Sidya Touré, his contributions to the country's development and politics will not be forgotten. Cellou Dalein Diallo's words serve as a reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation in the face of adversity. The legacy of Sidya Touré will live on through the countless lives he touched during his lifetime.
Key points
- Cellou Dalein Diallo pays tribute to Sidya Touré as an exceptional statesman and a close friend.
- Sidya Touré played a significant role in shaping Guinea's economy and politics during his tenure as Prime Minister.
- Cellou Dalein Diallo and Sidya Touré shared a long history of collaboration and friendship that transcended political differences.
