Guinea: Radio stations suspend broadcast in protest /update 3

Event

At least 40 radio stations stopped broadcasting for a 24-hour period beginning at noon (local time) on Tuesday, November 28, to denounce government censorship. The move came a day after government officials shut down the BTA FM radio station in Labé (Fouta Djallon region) to prevent the broadcast of an interview with a leader of a teachers union amid an ongoing teacher strike; the strike was launched on November 13 and continues despite calls from the government and other unions to return to work.

Protests related to the ongoing teacher strike as well as the radio disruptions are likely, particularly in the capital Conakry.

Context

Teachers are demanding the implementation of a wage increase agreement reached between the government and union representatives in September 2016. However, the strike is not supported by all members of the Free Union of Teachers and Researchers of Guinea (SLECG). Since November 13, small sporadic protests by students have occurred in Conakry, demanding that teachers return to work. Student protests occurred across the cities of Conakry and Boké on November 27, causing traffic disruptions and leading to clashes with security personnel.

Advice

Individuals in Guinea, particularly Conakry, are advised to remain vigilant and avoid all protests.