21 Dec 2019 | 02:59 PM UTC
Guinea: Legislative elections due February 16
Electoral commission announces legislative elections to be held on February 16, 2020; heightened security presence and associated demonstrations expected over the near term
Event
The president of the electoral commission in Guinea announced that legislative elections will take place on Sunday, February 16, 2020.
Political rallies and protests are expected in the lead up to the elections and following the result of the election; a heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be anticipated near all such demonstrations.
Context
Opposition members allege that President Alpha Condé, who has been in power since 2010, is positioning himself to change the constitution to then run for a third presidential term in late 2020. Condé has now publicly called for constitutional change regarding presidential term limits.
Opposition groups have organized several demonstrations since October 14. Clashes between security forces and protesters have left at least 17 people dead.
Advice
Individuals in Guinea are advised to monitor the situation, avoid public political demonstrations due to the risk of violence, anticipate localized disruptions on February 16, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
