Guinea: Nationwide anti-government protest planned for March 5 /update 12

Event

The National Front for the Defense of the Constitution (FNDC) opposition party has called for additional nationwide anti-government protests on Thursday, March 5. According to an FNDC statement, the main demonstration will take place in Conakry where protesters are expected to gather at 09:00 (local time) at the Tannerie roundabout before marching through the Esplanade du Palais du Peuple, via the Gbessia Kondebounyi, Madina, and Donka neigborhoods.

Additional protests have been announced in Coyah, Telimélé, Kindia, Dubréka, Tanènè, Bouramayah, Fria, Boffa, Kolaboui, Kamsar, Boké, Sangarédi, Labé, Tougué, Lelouma, Koubia, Mamou, Dalaba, Pita, Dabola, and Dinguiraye.

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are anticipated near demonstration sites. Further 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. Protests have intensified after President Alpha Condé, who has been in power since 2010, announced on December 19 that he would organize a constitutional referendum. The new constitution would increase a presidential term from five years to six, and would impose a two limit term. It is unclear if previous terms served would count, however Condé has inferred that they would not. The opposition has denounced the referendum as a constitutional coup enabling Condé to remain in power, and announced it would boycott the vote.

Initially scheduled to take place on March 1, along with the legislative elections, both votes have been delayed for two weeks. As of March 4, the new date for the votes has not been announced.

Advice

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