Guinea: Nationwide protests expected January 13 /update 22

Event

Members of the Front National pour la Défense de la Constitution (FNDC) opposition coalition have announced that nationwide protests will be held on Monday, January 13. Protests aim to denounce President Alpha Condé's proposed constitutional referendum. In the capital Conakry, authorities have banned the protests; as of Monday morning (local time) it remains unclear if participants will gather despite the ban. The government has warned that increased security measures will be implemented nationwide and that security forces will not hesitate to resort to coercive action if the situation deteriorates.

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions should be anticipated near all demonstration sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

The FNDC has organized several opposition demonstrations since October 14, some of which have turned violent. Opposition members allege that President Condé, who has been in power since 2010, is positioning himself to change the constitution in order to allow him to run for a third presidential term in late 2020. President Condé publicly called for a constitutional referendum on December 19.

Advice

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