Protests Erupt in Conakry Over Power Outages, Police Fire Tear Gas

Protests erupted in the Taouyah District of Conakry, the capital of Guinea, on April 23, 2024 over ongoing power outages that have plunged the West African country into darkness and unrest. Local residents blocked roads to denounce the death of two individuals who had protested the lack of electricity the previous day.

Police responded to the demonstrations by using tear gas in an attempt to disperse the crowds, leading to clashes as protesters retaliated by throwing stones and other debris. Increased security presence and localized transport disruptions are expected over the coming hours, with the possibility of further unrest if the power outages persist.

The power cuts have triggered widespread demonstrations across Conakry, with protesters erecting barricades in several neighborhoods. The Guinean Electricity Company has promised to gradually restore power but has not provided a timeline, leaving the country's 14 million residents in a state of uncertainty.

Why this matters: The ongoing power outages and resulting protests underscore the fragile state of Guinea's infrastructure and the growing frustration among its citizens. The unrest also highlights the challenges faced by the military junta led by Mamady Doumbouya, who ousted President Alpha Conde in 2021 and has pledged to hold elections in December 2024 to return the country to democracy.

Guinea has been in a volatile state in recent months, with clashes between striking trade unions and internet shutdowns imposed by the military junta. Authorities have advised avoiding all demonstrations, taking alternative routes to circumvent protest activity and related disruptions, and adhering to instructions issued by local officials and the home government.

Key Takeaways

• Protests in Conakry, Guinea over ongoing power outages; 2 killed in prior protests.
• Police used tear gas to disperse crowds; increased security and transport disruptions expected.
• Power cuts have triggered widespread demonstrations across Conakry, with barricades erected.
• Unrest highlights fragile infrastructure and growing frustration among Guinean citizens.
• Authorities advise avoiding demonstrations and adhering to instructions from officials.