Guinea: Protesters clash with security forces in Conakry September 29 /update 1

Event

Opposition National Front of the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC) activists clashed with security forces in the central Kaloum district of Conakry on Tuesday, September 29, as police attempted to disperse a prohibited march against President Alpha Conde's candidacy in Guinea's upcoming presidential election. Demonstrators had planned to march from the Tannerie roundabout to the Palais du Peuple, but the route was blocked by police who fired tear gas to disperse the crowd. Related clashes were also reported in the Bonfi, Sonfonia, and Bailobaya neighborhoods, where protesters blocked roads with burning tires.

A heightened security presence should be expected in the vicinity of all demonstrations. Residual localized disruptions are likely in Kaloum and around other protest sites in the near term.

Context

President Alpha Conde, in power since 2010, pushed through a change in the constitution following a referendum in March that effectively reset the two-term limit in the constitution and allowed him to run as his party candidate in the upcoming presidential election on October 18. Opposition supporters boycotted the referendum and have held widespread protests over the amendments in recent months, which have frequently resulted in clashes with security forces.

Advice

Those in Conakry are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and political gatherings, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.