Guinea’s coup leaders start cross-party talks

Four days of talks are aimed at building a consensus on the country's future.

In Summary

• But lengthy discussions or debates would seem impossible given that the dozens of politicians were given just two hours with the military officers.

• Amongst those taking part are the main opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo and officials from the party of the toppled president Alpha Condé.

Guinea’s new military rulers are anxious to avoid economic sanctions.
Guinea’s new military rulers are anxious to avoid economic sanctions.
Image: REUTERS

Military officers who seized power earlier this month in Guinea have been holding talks with representatives of dozens of political parties.

The coup leaders say the four days of talks are aimed at building a consensus on the country's future including a timetable for a return to civilian rule.

But lengthy discussions or debates would seem impossible given that the dozens of politicians were given just two hours with the military officers.

Amongst those taking part are the main opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo and officials from the party of the toppled president Alpha Condé.

The military officers will also meet religious leaders, representatives of business, trade unions, diplomats and civil society groups.

The West African regional body, Ecowas, and the African Union have suspended Guinea and the country faces the threat of economic sanctions.

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