Guinea hopes to soon hold free elections for the first time in the nation's history. Since the the country gained independence in 1958, a series of military dictatorships have repressed the people and prevented choice by the people of national leaders. However, General Sekouba Konate, leader of the transitional government, has surrendered his own power and agreed to guide the country through a democratic election process. He has ordered the military into their barracks during the vote, preventing any interference or intimidation. The situation for the voters, however, has been described as something of a "democratic free-for-all" due to the 24 candidates running for office. Without the fear of the military, it appears that the aftermath of the elections may be more dangerous than voting itself if the official is unable to make hoped-for changes in the near future.
While Guinea is indeed making an essential step towards unity by granting the people a choice through the vote, I agree with the concern about the aftermath of the elections. If the nation does not see radical improvement within the towns and villages running without electricity and water and still depending on sustenance farming, their may not be a completely peaceful new era beginning in the country.
Article Referenced:
Nossier, Adam. "Guineans Revel in Prospect of First Free Vote." NYTimes. New York Times.
26 June 2010. Web. June 2010
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