Guinea elections: Violent protests as Alpha Condé set for victory

Gunfire has erupted in Guinea’s capital, Conakry, as provisional election results show President Alpha Condé, 82, is on course to win a controversial third term.

The government has deployed soldiers to assist the police deal with the protests against Mr Condé.

Opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo has alleged large-scale fraud and declared himself winner.

Internet and phone services have been cut in the West African nation.

Ethnic clashes during the campaign had raised fears of nationwide violence if the results are disputed.

It is important to know that residents in opposition strongholds say that many people are holed up in their homes and that the police are using live ammunition instead of tear gas against protesters.

According to sources the army has been requisitioned to support the police in maintaining Candidates and their supporters, in Guinea’s presidential election, have had to campaign during Covid-19.

Communications by telephone are barely going through and the internet has been shut down.

At least 10 people, including two police officers, have been killed since Sunday’s poll, according to the authorities. Other sources put the figure at 20 deaths.

Results released from 37 out of 38 constituencies show Mr Condé gained 2.4 million votes, well ahead of Mr Diallo with 1.2 million votes. Some other opposition groups boycotted the poll.

Candidates need more than 50% of the vote for outright victory, or there will be a second round on 24 November.

Some 5.4 million voters were eligible to vote.

Despite widespread criticism, Mr Condé pushed for a change of the constitution making him eligible to seek re-election.

Months of protests have often turned deadly. At least 12 people were killed in the week leading up to the election.