Guinea: Violent protests in Conakry February 12 /update 7

Event

Violent protests erupted in Conakry on Monday, February 12, amid dual educational and post-election crises in Guinea. Among the places affected by the outbreaks of violence include the Bambeto, Koloma (Ratoma commune), and Cosa neighborhoods and along Le Prince highway, where young people have reportedly burned tires and erected roadblocks; protesters have also demonstrated at the Tannerie (Matoto municipality), as well. Significant disruptions to commerce have been reported in the affected areas; gunfire was also reported in some localities. Additional protests and associated clashes with security forces are expected in Conakry in the coming days.

Context

The Syndicat Libre des Enseignants et Chercheurs de Guinée (SLECG) education union recently launched a strike, prompting students to protest in the capital.

Local elections took place nationwide on February 4, the first to be held since 2005. Associated violence was reported before, during, and after the elections. Incidents of post-election violence have resulted in at least seven deaths throughout the country, including those of five children in Kalinko on February 6. One protester was allegedly killed by police in Kindia on February 5; a student also died on February 7 from fatal gunshot wounds sustained in a suburb of Conakry the day before. Opposition members claim that massive electoral fraud was carried out by the ruling party during the vote.

Political protests take place on a regular basis throughout Guinea. Civil society protest groups - mainly organized by the political opposition - denounce what they claim is a failure of governance by President Alpha Condé and his party, blaming him for the country's poor economic performance. Demonstrators have also denounced corruption, the high cost of living, public health problems, and general insecurity in the country. Clashes between anti-government demonstrators and police regularly take place during protests.

Advice

Individuals in Guinea, particularly in Conakry, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.