Political Analysts Weigh in on Guinean Coup

DAKAR, SENEGAL - A Guinean army unit seized control of the country Sunday and announced it had deposed President Alpha Conde. The soldiers expressed frustration over widespread poverty and corruption in Guinea. After Conde’s first win in 2010, citizens hoped he would bring stability to Guinea, which had suffered decades of rampant corruption.

It was the country’s first democratic election since gaining independence from France in 1958.   But critics say Conde’s presidency has only increased poverty, despite the country's immense supply of mineral riches.  Tensions peaked last year when the 83-year-old president changed the constitution to allow himself to seek a third term. After he won, violent demonstrations erupted across the country.