Guinea: Government pays tribute to Sidya Touré following his death

The Guinean government officially announced the death of former Prime Minister Sidya Touré on Saturday, September 26, 2026, and extended its condolences to his family. The former head of government passed away on Friday in Paris at the age of 81.

The government announcement came the day after the loss of this prominent figure in Guinean politics. Sidya Touré led the government from 1996 to 1999 under Lansana Conté before becoming a key opposition leader through the Union of Republican Forces (UFR).

His passing has sparked a wave of reactions within the political class. Former President Alpha Condé honored the memory of a “statesman” and recalled that, despite their differences, Sidya Touré had agreed to serve as High Representative of the Head of State. Cellou Dalein Diallo referred to him as a friend and a companion in both journey and struggle.

Tributes are pouring in

Guinean Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah also paid tribute to Sidya Touré, whom he described as a pragmatic reformer. Several other political leaders highlighted his tenure as Prime Minister and his lasting impact on Guinean public life.

Sidya Touré had been living outside Guinea for several years. His death occurred in Paris, where he was receiving treatment. The repatriation program for his remains and funeral arrangements had not yet been officially communicated at the time of the initial reactions.

His party, the UFR, was dissolved in 2026 along with several other political parties as part of a decision by Guinean authorities. The passing of its former president thus occurs amid a reconfiguration of the country’s political landscape.