Guinea: Nationwide protests March 14 /update 1

Event

Clashes erupted in several districts of the capital Conakry - including Kaloum, Coronthie, Sandervalia, Manquepas, and certain suburbs - on Monday, March 12, amid a 24-hour general strike organized by opposition groups. Protesters erected barricades and burned tires on roads. The opposition has also announced plans to hold nationwide protests on Wednesday, March 14, although no details are currently available.

Increased security measures and localized transportation disruptions are anticipated in the vicinity of any protests and further outbreaks of violence are possible.

Context

Opposition parties had called for the March 12 strike to denounce the results of local elections held on February 4; some also used the opportunity to denounce an ongoing month-long teacher strike.

Opposition members claim that massive electoral fraud was carried out in the recent elections, which saw President Alpha Conde's Rally of the Guinean People (RPG) win the majority of the vote.

Advice

Individuals in Guinea, particularly in Conakry, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.