More than seven people have been killed in violence after Guinea held its first free vote.
In a fatal script that borrows heavily from Kenya's post-election chaos, security forces have been accused of using excessive force while quelling violence in Conakry.
Rival ethnic groups clashed after opposition leader Alpha Conde was named winner of the November 7 election.
His main rival Cellou Dalein Diallo has challenged the election result in the Supreme Court. Diallo's supporters mainly from the Peul community, have hit the streets protesting 'a stolen election'.
They have clashed with the security forces and Conde's supporters mainly from the Malinke community.
Africa has in the past, earned the tag of the 'dark continent' for being home to several human tragedies. Before the advent of democratic elections, the continent experienced bloody coups, where presidents were overthrown mainly by the armed forces.
Today, elections rigging and subsequent skirmishes after the results are announced have become the other shame of the continent. Elections have become the continent's Achilles heels. As global peacemakers converge in Nairobi for the Global Peace Forum, this week, leaders should strive to unite all communities.
Ethnic rivalry should never be allowed to boil over into violence. Any leader worth his or her salt should preach tolerance and encourage healthy competition.
After all, in any election there has to be a winner and the loser.
Source: The Standard | Online Edition
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