Ahmed Sékou Touré – hero or dictator? This question has been at the center of a war of memory in Guinea, as a new generation grapples with the conflicting legacies of the country’s first president. Forty years after his death, Touré, the father of Guinea’s independence, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, particularly among young people across West Africa in search of a hero.
However, this rehabilitation of Touré’s image overlooks the dark and oppressive side of his regime. Tens of thousands of deaths have been attributed to his rule, with the infamous Camp Boiro concentration camp serving as a symbol of the brutality and suppression endured by many Guineans. Unfortunately, access to this site is now closed to victims’ families, further deepening the wounds of past atrocities.
As our correspondent Sarah Sakho reports, the debate surrounding Touré’s legacy is complex and contentious. While some view him as a visionary leader who fought against colonial oppression, others see him as a ruthless dictator who oppressed his own people. The conflicting narratives surrounding Touré reflect the ongoing struggle to reconcile Guinea’s past with its present reality.
Despite the controversies surrounding his rule, one thing is clear – Ahmed Sékou Touré remains a divisive figure whose legacy continues to spark debate and reflection in Guinea and beyond.
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Video “Hero or dictator? Ahmed Sékou Touré and the war of memory in Guinea • FRANCE 24 English” was uploaded on 10/07/2024 to Youtube Channel FRANCE 24 English