Guinea: Presidential election to be held October 18

Event

Political rallies, protests, associated violence, and a heightened security presence are expected in the build-up to, during, and in the aftermath of the Guinean presidential election on Sunday, October 18. President Alpha Conde will be seeking a controversial third term in the election, which has caused months of widespread unrest nationwide. Therefore, political tensions are expected to escalate in the build-up to polling day and may well continue following the election, depending on the result.

Protests and rallies are expected in urban centers across the country in the coming days, and are likely to be accompanied by a heightened security presence and localized disruptions to transport. Clashes between rival political groups and between demonstrators and security forces are also likely to occur.

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 Guinea are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant due to the threat of electoral-related violence, avoid the vicinity of political gatherings, polling stations and electoral commission offices, adhere from discussing politically sensitive topics in public, and heed all directives issued by local authorities.