30 Aug 2019 | 04:27 AM UTC
Guinea: Rival political groups plan events in Nzérékoré August 31 /update 3
National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC) coalition plans to rally in Nzérékoré on August 31; supporters of President Alpha Condé announce their own demonstration on the same day
Event
The National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC) coalition is planning to hold a demonstration in Nzérékoré (Nzérékoré prefecture) on Saturday, August 31, at the National School of Teachers (ENI). Supporters of President Alpha Condé have also reportedly announced plans to rally in Nzérékoré on Saturday at the city's professional training center. Clashes between rival political support and security forces are possible if the demonstrations are held. Heightened security measures are also expected in Nzérékoré on August 31.
Context
Tensions have been high in Nzérékoré since the region’s prefect banned FNDC activity on June 8. The coalition carried out a protest on June 13 despite the ban, which resulted in at least one demonstrator being killed and over 30 people being wounded in violent clashes.
The march was held to protest President Condé's potential bid to change the constitution and run for a third term in 2020. Opposition members allege that Alpha Condé, who has been in power since 2010, is positioning himself to change the constitution so he can stand for a third term in late 2020. Condé has not openly commented on his ambitions; however, his supporters have increased their calls for constitutional change in recent months.
Advice
Individuals in Nzérékoré are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
