Guinea: Authorities reopen borders Sept. 6, following Sept. 5 coup /update 6

Event

The National Committee of Rally and Development (Comite National du Rassemblement et du Developpement, CNRD) announced the reopening of land and air borders for commercial and humanitarian operations Sept. 6, following the temporary closure enacted after the Sept. 5 coup. A nationwide curfew running 20:00-06:00 will remain in place until further notice. However, the curfew has been lifted in mining areas to allow for the resumption of activities. The Front National pour la Defense de la Constitution (FNDC) civil society group also announced the release of political detainees Sept. 6.

As of Sept. 6, the situation in Conakry remains calm, with most businesses, markets, and administrations being closed. The Kaloum area of Conakry remains cordoned off. Military personnel remains widely deployed in Conakry, including around the strategic 8 November Bridge and Presidential Palace. In Labe, celebratory gatherings have been reported Sept. 6. The situation in Kankan remains unclear as of Sept. 6; on Sept 5, most businesses were closed in the area.

Movement restrictive measures, telecommunication disruptions, and disruptions to state and business operations are likely to continue. Clashes between rival security force factions may continue after clashes occurred Sept. 5, resulting in an unspecified number of casualties. These could occur in Conakry or elsewhere in the country.

Further public gatherings in response to developments are likely nationwide. These could be in favor of the coup or in support of the Conde government. Any gathering is likely to be met by a security force deployment. Clashes are possible at all protest locations.

Context

The political and security situations remain fluid across the country following the Sept. 5 coup, which ousted former President Alpha Conde. The Special Forces Group (Groupement des forces Speciales), led by Lieutenant Colonel Doumbouya, reportedly arrested Conde Sept. 5. According to military sources, Conde was taken to an undisclosed location. Doumbouya has announced the suspension of the constitution, the dissolution of the government, and that the CNRD has assumed power. Regional governors have also been replaced by regional commanders. According to media reports, at least two people were injured, and one killed during the coup.

Advice

Shelter in place until the situation stabilizes. Consider deferring travel to Guinea until the situation stabilizes. Monitor local media and maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Avoid concentrations of security personnel. Plan for road travel delays. Reconfirm all scheduled transport services, including flights, before departure. Avoid all protests.