In an effort to restore order in Guinea, the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) has called on the military to step down and hand power to a civilian adminstration.
At the same time, the coalition of opposition parties which operates under the banner of "Forces Vive" has affirmed the urgent need for the National Council for Democracy and Development (CNDD, the body formed by the junta) to cede power, and for the creation of a transitional authority to rule Guinea, as agreed by an international contact group and by Ecowas heads of state in October.
Meanwhile contradictory information on the health of Dadis Moussa Camara, the head of the military junta who was shot and injured by an aide last week, is causing confusion among Guineans. He is being treated in Morocco.
It is reported that the uncertainty was responsible for the sudden closure of shops on December 5, when rumours circulated that Camara had died. But according to reports from AFP, the medical division of the Moroccan Royal Army indicated on Sunday that Camara's condition was no cause for concern. He underwent an operation in Rabat the previous day.
But according to a diplomat who prefers to stay anonymous, a broken bone pierced Camara's brain and doctors are not sure whether he is going to make a full recovery. That notwithstanding, the die is cast and the departure of Captain Dadis Camara is almost certain.
Translated and adapted from the original by Michael Tantoh.
