Former Guinean Prime Minister Sidya Touré has died in Paris at the age of 81. He passed away on September 25, 2026, at around 11 pm at the American Hospital in Paris, where he had been hospitalized for nearly two weeks. Touré's death marks the end of several decades of engagement in Guinean politics. He was a prominent figure in the country's history over the last three decades.
Born in 1945 in Côte d'Ivoire, Touré began his career in Ivoirian administration before entering Guinean politics. He worked under Alassane Ouattara, then Prime Minister of Côte d'Ivoire, and held several positions in the Ivoirian public sector. Touré's political career in Guinea began in July 1996 when President Lansana Conté appointed him Prime Minister. He led the government during a period of significant economic and social challenges.
As Prime Minister, Touré was known as a technocrat committed to reforming the administration and improving public finances. He served in this position until March 1999, when he was replaced by Me Lamine Sidimé. After leaving office, Touré emerged as a key figure in the Guinean opposition. He led the Union of Republican Forces (UFR) and participated in several elections, including the 2010 and 2015 presidential elections.
During Alpha Condé's presidency, Touré experienced a period of rapprochement with the government. He was appointed High Representative of the Head of State after Condé's re-election in 2015. However, he left this position in December 2018 and returned to the opposition. Following the September 5, 2021 coup, Touré was forced to leave his Conakry home, which was confiscated by the new authorities for the state.
Touré subsequently left Guinea and settled in Côte d'Ivoire. Prior to the dissolution of his party by the Guinean government in March 2026, he had already withdrawn from active politics. His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the country. The Guinean government has not yet issued an official statement on the matter.
Sidya Touré's legacy in Guinean politics is complex and multifaceted. He was known for his commitment to public service and his efforts to improve the country's economic and social landscape. As one of the country's most experienced politicians, Touré played a significant role in shaping Guinea's recent history.
The Guinean people are mourning the loss of a prominent leader who dedicated his life to public service. Sidya Touré's contributions to the country's development will be remembered for years to come. His passing leaves a void in Guinean politics that will be difficult to fill.
Key points
- Sidya Touré died in Paris at the age of 81.
- He served as Prime Minister of Guinea from 1996 to 1999.
- Touré was a prominent figure in Guinean politics for over three decades.
