Tensions High in Guinea After Presidential Vote
Scott Stearns 16 November 2010
Security forces are on alert across Guinea's capital, Conakry, one day after opposition leader Alpha Conde was named the winner of the country's runoff presidential election.
At least 66 people have been injured in violence since results of the poll were announced late Monday. Sixteen are reported in critical condition, mostly with gunshot wounds.
Guinea's military rulers have banned all public demonstrations and say they will not allow any violence to disrupt the transition to civilian rule.
Despite the tensions, supporters of Mr. Conde cheered in the streets as he toured districts in the capital Tuesday following morning prayers.
The president-elect says the Guinean people voted calmly and with great maturity despite what he said were many provocations.
The election commission says Mr. Conde won 52.5 percent of the vote, while former prime minister Cellou Dalein Diallo received 47.5 percent.
Mr. Diallo says he will contest the results. He says his supporters are being unfairly targeted for harassment by the country's security forces.
Both men have appealed for calm.
International observers have said the voting on November 7 appeared to be free and fair.
However, Mr. Diallo says violence in the cities of Siguiri and Kouroussa drove thousands of people from his ethnic group, known as the Peul or Fulani, from their homes, keeping down his vote totals.
The election commission says any complaints must be taken up with the Supreme Court.
The election was considered Guinea's first democratic vote after more than 50 years of dictatorship and a military junta.
Mr. Diallo won the first-round election in June, beating 23 other candidates with 44 percent of the vote. Mr. Conde was second with 18 percent.
Some information for this report was provided by AP and AFP.
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