Brussels, 23/01/2007 (Agence Europe) - The Commission has expressed its deep concern at the worsening political situation in the Republic of Guinea. It also condemns the violent interventions carried out by law enforcement agencies, and calls for moderation and civic responsibility to be shown in demonstrations during the general strike.
Louis Michel, Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, “deplores the loss of many human lives” and, “encourages the different actors to pursue a constructive dialogue for implementing the necessary political reforms”. The Commissioner also called for the executive and other powers that be to “respect the principles of the rule of law and deepen discussions for unblocking the situation in respect of accepted constitutional procedures”. Louis Michel welcomed the decision taken by ECOWAS (the Economic Community of West African States) to send a delegation to Conakry to begin consultations with the different Guinean political actors. In a press release, the Commission provided assurances that it would support the process for reinforcing democracy, and the implementation of conditions for democratic expression, as part of the Constitution. The Commission is following events very closely and, when the time is propitious, will assess the situation on the basis of the provisions in the Cotonou Agreement (Article 96 on consultation procedures applicable in cases of essential aspects being violated, such as respect for human rights, democracy, the rule of law and good management practices in public affairs), of which Guinea is a signatory. (an)