Conde urges calm after surviving attack

2011-07-19 15:25

Conakry - Guinean President Alpha Conde on Tuesday called for calm and vigilance hours after surviving an attack on his residence by unknown assailants which led to over two hours of heavy fighting.

"I urge you to remain calm and vigilant for the sake of national unity. I don't want any popular reaction... Allow the army and security forces to do their job," Conde said in an address broadcast on state television.

"My house was attacked last night but I congratulate the presidential guard who fought heroically from 03:10 until 05:00 before backup arrived," said Conde.

"Our enemies can try everything, but they cannot prevent the Guinean people's march towards democracy. Democracy has begun and it will continue, I promised you change and, God willing, change will happen."

"If there are people who want to sow hatred in Guinea we must not follow them. Guinea is one country, we are united, we cannot develop if we are not united and we will not accept being divided," he added.

"I beg you to remain calm and continue your work. I am counting on you and your wisdom. If God wishes, and thanks to the prayers of our Imams, I will lead Guinea to victory, that is to say development, progress and unity. I trust you. Trust me."

- SAPA