President Alpha Condé was sworn in on December 3 as the Republic of Guinea’s first democratically-elected president after 50 years of authoritarian and military rule. Though richly endowed with natural resources, Guinea is one of the poorest countries in West Africa. Decades of economic mismanagement and political repression have stunted economic growth and inhibited the development of democratic practices. An assassination attempt on President Condé on July 19 vividly demonstrates the fragility of Guinea’s nascent democracy.
Since assuming power, President Condé has reiterated his determination to promote good governance and national reconciliation, strengthen democratic institutions and undertake security sector reform. Guinea is scheduled to hold legislative elections before the end of the year.
At a recent event at NDI, President Condé discussed his government’s actions after seven months in office and shared his vision and priorities for the country.
