Claude Kory Kondiano

Introduction

Claude Kory Kondiano, an iconic figure in Guinean politics, left an indelible mark on his country's history through his exceptional commitment and career. Born in 1942 in Tyessane, Kissidougou prefecture, and passing away on September 27, 2022, in Conakry, Kondiano held key positions within the Guinean government, culminating in his presidency of the National Assembly from 2014 to 2020. His journey illustrates the rise of a man devoted to his country, combining economic expertise with political vision.

Childhood and Education

Hailing from Guinea's forest region, Claude Kory Kondiano began his education in 1949 at the Catholic Mission primary school in Broadou, Kissidougou. His academic path, characterized by excellence and diversity, led him through several prestigious institutions:

• 1962: Normal Course at the Catholic Mission of Dabadougou in Kankan
• Technical High School of Bamako (Mali)
• Benedict Fribourg School (Germany)
• 1966-1968: Technical Institute of Banking at the National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts in Paris (ITB)
• Institute of Social Sciences and Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University (Development Economics)
• 1970-1972: Sciences Po Paris (Economics Option and Development Economics Section)

This multidisciplinary and international training laid the foundation for his future career, blending economic expertise with a deep understanding of development issues.

Professional Career

Returning to Guinea in the 1980s, Kondiano quickly climbed the ranks of the country's financial and economic administration:

1. Director of Studies and Statistics at the Central Bank of the Republic of Guinea (BCRG) (1977-1981)
2. Director of the Central Foreign Exchange Fund of BCRG (1981-1985)
3. Secretary of State for Trade (1985-1988)
4. Advisor to BCRG for Exchange Issues (1988-1989)
5. Director of Administrative Services at BCRG (1989-1990)
6. Advisor to BCRG for Training Issues (1991-1993)
7. Director of Human Resources and Communication, then Director of Budget and Planning at BCRG (1993-1995)
8. Personnel Director of BCRG and Advisor for Research and Training (1995-2002)

Alongside these official functions, Kondiano shared his expertise as a professor in several prestigious institutions:

• Lecturer at CIFB/Guinea (1982-1991)
• Extra-mural Professor at the Gamal Abdel Nasser Polytechnic Institute of Conakry
• Instructor at the Faculty of Administrative Sciences of Donka (Public Finance and Banking Economics)
• Lecturer in General Economics at the Training Center for the Banking Profession in Paris

International Career

Claude Kory Kondiano's expertise extended beyond Guinea's borders. From 1982 to 1983, he chaired the Exchange and Clearing Sub-Committee of the West African Clearing House (WACH), which later became the West African Monetary Agency (WAMA). This experience reinforced his stature as a financial expert at the regional level.

Political Career

Kondiano's political commitment materialized within the Rally of the Guinean People (RPG), of which he was a member and supporter. His political journey culminated in his election as a deputy, paving the way for his appointment as President of the National Assembly.

President of the National Assembly

Claude Kory Kondiano made Guinean political history by serving as President of the National Assembly from January 13, 2014, to April 22, 2020. During his tenure, he distinguished himself by his ability to unite and maintain balance among the various political forces represented in the Assembly. Me Check Sacko, former Minister of Justice, testifies: "Here was a gentleman who balanced these various political forces. I am well-placed to say this because I defended many cases there."

After his term at the National Assembly, Kondiano was appointed High Representative of President Alpha Condé, a position he held from June 20, 2020, to September 5, 2021, the date of the military coup that overthrew the government.

Death and Tribute

Claude Kory Kondiano passed away on September 27, 2022, in Conakry, following an illness. His death prompted numerous tributes, highlighting his role as a unifier and his impact on Guinean political life. Me Check Sacko declared: "He was a great man who created balance not only politically but also socially."

Private Life

Married and father of five children, Claude Kory Kondiano successfully balanced an intense professional and political career with a fulfilling family life. His relatives and colleagues often emphasized his integrity and dedication, both in his public and private life.

Publications

Passionate about research and writing, Claude Kory Kondiano left a significant intellectual imprint:

1. "Obstacles to Savings Mobilization by the Former Banking System in Guinea" (1993)
2. "Guinea, 50 Years of Monetary Independence from 1960 to 2010" (Ganndal Editions)

These works testify to his expertise in economic and financial matters, as well as his commitment to Guinea's development.

Conclusion

Claude Kory Kondiano's journey embodies the story of a man devoted to serving his country. From his beginnings in the banking sector to his role as President of the National Assembly, including his academic and literary contributions, Kondiano left an indelible mark on Guinea's political and economic landscape.

His ability to navigate between academic, economic, and political worlds, while maintaining balance and uniting different factions, makes him a unique figure in contemporary Guinean history. His legacy, marked by expertise, integrity, and commitment to his country's development, will continue to inspire future generations of Guinean leaders.

The passing of Claude Kory Kondiano marks the end of an era for Guinean politics, but his influence and the lessons from his journey will remain etched in the country's collective memory. His story is that of a man who put his knowledge and experience at the service of his nation, thus contributing significantly to the political and economic evolution of modern Guinea.