Guinea lost hefty aid package it used to get from the US
By agencies
CONAKRY, Guinea- The US has suspended assistance to the West African nation of Guinea, with the exception of humanitarian aid and programmes supporting the democratic process. The decision, announced Tuesday by the US State Department.
''The United States remains concerned about the military coup in Guinea. We support the efforts of the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to speed the transition to civilian rule.
''We reiterate our call for a return to civilian rule and the holding of free, fair and transparent elections as soon as possible. We note that at the time of President Conte's death, Guinea was preparing for legislative elections in early 2009,'' the statement added.
The AU has suspended Guinea and threatened more sanctions against the country if nothing is done to quickly restore constitutional order, while ECOWAS leaders are due to meet in Nigeria's capital city of Abuja Friday to deliberate on the coup.
Indications are that the 15-member regional bloc will also suspend Guinea.