11 Sep 2018 | 05:09 AM UTC
Guinea: Further protests planned in Conakry September 13 /update 4
Union representing port workers plans another march in Conakry on September 13; clashes between protesters and security forces possible
Event
Port workers from the Autonomous Port of Conakry (PAC) are planning to hold another march in Conakry on Thursday, September 13. Demonstrators are expected to gather at Port de Boulbinet in the Kaloum area before traveling to Palais du Peuple. On Monday, September 10, security forces fired tear gas to disperse a meeting between workers and a government mediator at the PAC. A similar security response is possible during the September 13 march. Localized traffic disruptions are also anticipated along the protest route.
Context
The National Confederation of Workers of Guinea (CNTG) union is protesting the government's decision to allow a Turkish company to manage the PAC for 25 years in exchange for refurbishing the report. Union leaders claim the decision is illegal and it will threaten the jobs of their workers.
A related march was held on August 17 but was quickly dispersed when police fired tear gas on the demonstrators; the government maintains that the protest was unauthorized.
Advice
Individuals in Conakry and are advised to monitor the situation and avoid all protests due to the potential for violence.
