The family of Sidya Touré, the former Prime Minister of Guinea, has decided that he will be buried in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, rather than in Conakry, as initially wished by the Guinean authorities. Touré passed away in Paris on Saturday at 1am local time. The Guinean government had sent Ambassador Bachir Diallo to the deceased's Abidjan residence to offer condolences and express their desire to take charge of the funeral and burial in Guinea.
Despite the government's offer, the family decided against burying Touré in Conakry, citing that they no longer have a home in the city and are unsure where to go. All funeral expenses have been taken care of by Touré's friend and former collaborator, Alassane Dramane Ouattara. The family is currently at the center of organizing the funeral, but no official date for the burial has been announced.
The news of Touré's burial in Abidjan has sparked a strong reaction from his supporters, particularly members of the Union des forces républicaines (UFR), which he led. Many militants are making plans to travel to Abidjan by road to attend the funeral. The program for the funeral and arrangements for the reception of supporters and close relatives traveling to Abidjan are expected to be announced in the coming hours.
Sidya Touré's death has caused widespread emotion in Guinea and within the UFR. As the president of the party, his passing leaves a significant void. The Guinean authorities had taken swift action, dispatching Ambassador Diallo to Abidjan to offer condolences and discuss funeral arrangements.
The family is working to finalize the funeral arrangements, but details remain scarce. Supporters and party members are eagerly awaiting news of the burial date and program. The UFR and Guinean authorities are expected to make announcements regarding the funeral and tributes to Touré in the coming days.
Alassane Dramane Ouattara, a close friend and former collaborator of Touré, has taken charge of the funeral expenses. This gesture is seen as a mark of respect and friendship towards the deceased. The burial in Abidjan will allow supporters and family members to pay their respects to Touré in Côte d'Ivoire.
The burial of Sidya Touré in Abidjan marks the end of an era for Guinean politics and the UFR party. As the country and party mourn the loss of a prominent leader, many are reflecting on Touré's legacy and contributions to Guinea's development. The final program for the funeral and burial will be announced in due course.
Key points
- The family of Sidya Touré has decided to bury him in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, rather than Conakry.
- The Guinean government had offered to take charge of the funeral and burial in Conakry.
- Supporters and party members are making plans to travel to Abidjan to attend the funeral.
