Guinea: Anti-government protests scheduled in Conakry January 28-29 /update 4

Event

The FNDC opposition party has called for additional anti-government protests in Conakry on Tuesday, January 28, and Wednesday, January 29. Although the exact times and locations of the demonstrations have not been announced, the main protests are expected to take place in the capital Conakry. Additional protests remain possible in other urban centers across the country.

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of any demonstration. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out. 

Context

The FNDC has organized several opposition demonstrations since October 14, some of which have turned violent. Opposition members allege that President Condé, who has been in power since 2010, is positioning himself to change the constitution in order to allow him to run for a third presidential term in late 2020. President Condé publicly called for a constitutional referendum on December 19. 

On January 21, and January 22, violent clashes were reported in Conakry between security forces and protesters during related anti-government protests.

Advice

Individuals in Guinea, notably in Conakry, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, budget extra time to reach their destinations if traveling through areas affected by demonstrations, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.