In Guinea, authorities reported that the latest protests resulted in multiple fatalities and a significant number of injuries. According to the Living Forces of Guinea (FVG), the demonstrations were organized to challenge the military junta that has been governing the country for years. The event drew participants from various backgrounds who sought a return to constitutional governance and the release of political prisoners who have been detained in connection with ongoing political tensions.
The FVG’s official statement described the protest as taking place in a tense atmosphere, marked by the heavy hand of public power and intimidating actions. The group emphasized that the gathering remained peaceful despite the hostile climate and asserted that calls for justice and accountability were at the heart of the demonstrations.
Early reports from the day indicated seven people were killed by gunfire, and thirty-two others were injured, fifteen of whom sustained serious injuries. In addition, law enforcement authorities detained fifty-two individuals during the unrest. The FVG condemned what it called the infiltration of violent actors into otherwise peaceful demonstrations and urged authorities to distinguish between peaceful protesters and those who intend harm.
Within the same wave of events, three members of the National Front for the Defense of the Constitution (FNDC) were released after several months in detention. The release included prominent figures such as Foniké Mengué, Ibrahima Diallo, and Billo Bah, who are associated with the movement seeking constitutional restoration and accountability for perceived anti-democratic actions.
As the capital Conakry prepared for further mobilization, organizers urged residents to take part in peaceful demonstrations planned for the following day. The government, however, had previously banned street protests after the 2021 coup, a measure tied to security concerns and the ongoing political stalemate. Supporters of the constitutional restoration continued to press for elections and a clear timetable for handover of power to civilian authorities.
The National Committee for Reconciliation and Development (CNRD), the official name of the Guinea-led governing body, was established after the coup that overthrew then-president Alpha Condé in September 2021. The leadership cited the need to stabilize the country amid months of political crisis sparked by constitutional amendments allowing a third term and the contentious outcomes of the 2020 presidential election, which opponents argued were marred by irregularities. The ongoing dialogue surrounding reform and governance has kept Guinea in the international spotlight as citizens push for democratic norms and lawful processes that reflect the will of the people.