Guinea: At least five people killed during violent protests October 14 /update 3

Event

At least five people were reportedly killed during violent protests on Monday, October 14. According to opposition leader Cellou Diallo, four demonstrators were shot by police officers in the capital Conakry. Diallo also told media sources that at least 38 people were wounded in clashes with security forces. A government spokesperson issued a contradictory statement, saying that one police officer was shot and killed in the city of Mamou and one protester was killed in Conakry. Several people were also reportedly arrested during the demonstrations.

Monday’s protests were organized by the National Front in Defense of the Constitution (FNDC) who oppose constitutional changes that would allow current President Alpha Condé to run for a third term in office. In Conakry, demonstrators blocked roads, burned tires, and threw stones at security forces. Hundreds of police officers were deployed to disperse the crowds using tear gas, stun grenades, and live ammunition. 

Opposition leaders have called for protests to continue until their demands are met. Heightened security measures, along with traffic disruptions are likely near any demonstration sites; clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out. Related protests are likely to take place over the next several weeks.

Context

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 now publicly called for constitutional change regarding presidential term limits.

Opposition group Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG) leader Cellou Dalein Diallo called for the resumption of protests on September 21.

Advice

Individuals in Guinea are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.