2008 Guinean military unrest

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Date	26 December 2008
Location	Conakry, Guinea
Caused by
Objectives
Methods
Status	Coup d'état
Concessions

The 2008 Guinean military unrest refers to a series of events that culminated in a military coup in Guinea following the death of long-time President Lansana Conté. The unrest began on 23 December 2008, when President Conté died after ruling the country for 24 years. The power vacuum led to a swift military takeover, marking a significant turning point in Guinea's political landscape.

Background

Guinea had been under the rule of President Lansana Conté since 1984, following a coup that brought him to power. His rule was characterized by authoritarian governance, economic challenges, and political instability. Conté's health had been deteriorating for years, leading to speculation about the country's future leadership.

Events Leading to the Unrest

On 23 December 2008, President Conté passed away, leaving a power vacuum. The Guinean constitution stipulated that the President of the National Assembly should assume the presidency in the event of the President's death. However, the military, led by Captain Moussa Dadis Camara, seized control of the government, citing the need to restore order and address corruption.

The Coup

On 26 December 2008, the military announced the dissolution of the government and the suspension of the constitution. Captain Moussa Dadis Camara declared himself the head of a new ruling body, the National Council for Democracy and Development (CNDD). The coup was met with mixed reactions domestically and internationally, with some Guineans welcoming the change and others fearing further instability.

Aftermath

The coup led to a period of military rule under Captain Moussa Dadis Camara. The CNDD promised to hold elections and restore civilian rule, but the transition was fraught with challenges. The international community, including the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), condemned the coup and called for a return to democratic governance.

International Reaction

The international community reacted swiftly to the coup. The African Union suspended Guinea's membership, and the United Nations and other international bodies expressed concern over the military takeover. Economic sanctions were considered to pressure the military junta to return to civilian rule.

Legacy

The 2008 military unrest in Guinea set the stage for future political developments in the country. It highlighted the fragility of Guinea's political institutions and the challenges of transitioning to a stable democratic system. The events of 2008 continue to influence Guinea's political landscape and its relations with the international community.

Also see

• Lansana Conté
• Moussa Dadis Camara
• Guinea
• 2009 Guinean political crisis
• African Union