Guinea: Violent protests ongoing in Conakry Feb. 19 /update 8

Event

Violent protests erupted in the capital Conakry on Monday, February 19, amid dual educational and post-election crises in Guinea. Among the places affected include the Hamdallaye-Bambeto-Cosa road located in the Lansanayah neighborhood, where protesters have erected roadblocks. Traffic along Fidel Castro Highway and the Taouyah Corniche is reportedly disrupted. Significant business and school disruptions have also been reported in affected areas. 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 an indefinite strike.

Local elections took place nationwide on February 4, the first to be held since 2005. On February 19, the electoral commission released almost all of the election results; however, some constituencies - including Ratoma, one of the largest districts in Conakry - are still waiting for their results, expected soon. According to media reports, the presidential party has reportedly dominated the election in most areas.

Political violence was reported before, during, and after the elections. Incidents of post-election violence have resulted in at least seven deaths throughout the country. 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.