The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has warned masterminds of Sunday’s military putsch in Guinea that their action contravened its Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, demanding immediate restoration of constitutional order in the country.

Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government and Ghanaian President, Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, who gave the directive, also asked for instant and unconditional release of President Alpha Condé and others arrested by the Mamady Doumbouya-led rebels.

He said: “ECOWAS notes with great concern the recent political developments, which occurred in Conakry, Republic of Guinea. It condemns with the greatest firmness this coup attempt on Sunday, September 5, 2021.

“ECOWAS demands respect for the physical integrity of the President of the Republic, Professor Alpha Condé, and his immediate and unconditional release, as well as that of all the personalities arrested.”

The sub-regional body reaffirmed its opposition to any unconstitutional change of political leadership.