20 Dec 2019 | 10:10 PM UTC
Guinea: Opposition to protest constitutional referendum across country December 26 /update 18
Opposition activists to stage nationwide protests on December 26 to denounce proposed constitutional referendum; heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions expected
Event
Members of the Front National pour la Défense de la Constitution (FNDC) opposition coalition have called for nationwide protests on Thursday, December 26, to denounce the president's proposed constitutional referendum. Organizers did not immediately announce exact meeting times and places, although the main gathering is expected in Conakry.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near all demonstration sites.
Context
The FNDC has organized several opposition demonstrations since October 14, some of which have turned violent. 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 publicly called for a constitutional referendum on December 19.
Advice
Individuals in Guinea, notably in Conakry, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.