Guinea’s prime minister and about 30 other government leaders turned themselves in at an army barracks today after the leader of a military coup ordered them to show up within 24 hours, a private radio station reported.

Coup leaders announced a 32-member interim government for Guinea hours after they said were in control of the mineral-rich West African country following the death of its dictator.

A GROUP of soldiers has launched a coup in the west African state of Guinea, hours after the death of 74-year-old strongman President Lansana Conte.

A military-led group declared a coup in Guinea today after the death of its long-time dictator, but the prime minister insisted he remained in charge.

A group calling itself the National Council for Democracy today announced that Guinea’s government has been dissolved.

President Lansana Conte declared a state of emergency in Guinea tonight, announcing in a broadcast on state radio and television he had ordered the army to "take all necessary measures" to restore order after three days of violent protests.

Street protests turned violent in Guinea’s capital, Conakry, today, with four people killed, as demonstrators threw stones and set up burning-tyre barricades while criticising the president for appointing an ally as prime minister.

Nigeria’s announcement that it is ready to hand over exiled Liberian warlord Charles Taylor – the first former African head of state indicted for crimes against humanity and war crimes – is a reluctant gesture that sends a powerful message to other warmongers on the continent.

GUINEA’S President Lansana Conte has rewarded the national soccer team with gifts of two tractors and land to show his appreciation after they routed Botswana 4-0 to move to the top of their World Cup qualifying group.