Colonel Mamadi Doumboya, the leader of Guinea’s military government, has defended the military’s actions in toppling civilian governments across Africa.
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Colonel Doumbouya argued that it’s time for Africa to free itself from European control. He expressed frustration with civilian leaders who make empty promises and seek to perpetuate their rule as a legacy.
Directly accusing Western countries of exploiting Africa’s resources, Colonel Doumbouya decried their use of African nations as battlefields to showcase their power. He emphasized that military actions weren’t driven by greed but by a desire to protect their countries from civilian rulers who disregarded their people’s needs.
“Instead of focusing on criticizing the military and pressuring them to stage coups, we should address the underlying issues that lead to these actions,” Doumbouya stated.
He went on to assert that Africans had awakened from their slumber and were prepared to take control of their destiny. Colonel Doumbouya suggested that the time had come for Africa to challenge the dominance of countries like America, Great Britain, France, China, and Turkey through indirect means.
“Africans have awakened, and the signs indicate that we are ready to tackle our problems independently. It’s time for Europeans to respect our sovereignty and let us determine our own future without interference. We seek complete freedom,” Doumbouya declared.
Colonel Doumbouya concluded by questioning whether Western nations viewed coups as anti-democratic and urged them to consider the actions of democratic leaders who amend constitutions to prolong their stay in power. He reiterated his lack of regret for the 2021 coup that ousted President Alpha Conde, despite facing immense pressure.
