Guinea: Civil society group may launch protests in the coming days as of May 12

Event

The Front National pour la Defense de la Constitution (FNDC) civil society group may protest through May in opposition to the National Transition Council (CNT)'s recent announcement that it will remain in power for 36 months before elections can be held. No details are available on precise times and locations of protests; however, demonstrations are likely to occur in central squares and popular gathering points in Conakry and other large cities.

Heightened security is likely near any protests that take place. Localized business and transport disruptions are likely in the vicinity of demonstrations. Clashes remain possible if protesters are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.

Context

The CNT acts as the interim parliamentary body in the country and was established following the Sept. 5, 2021 coup and capture of former President Alpha Conde. The CNT was set up by the Comite National du Rassemblement pour le Developpement (National Committee of Reconciliation and Development, CNRD) and other groups to govern the country until a national election could be held. The FNDC supported a transition period as short as 18 months; the CNRD initially proposed a 39-month transition period before the CNT approved a period of 36 months May 11.

Advice

Exercise caution in possible protest areas through May. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard precaution. Heed the directives of local security officials.