This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
Guinean President Alpha Conde has sent shockwaves through the West African nation with a call for a referendum and elections, sparking speculation that he may seek a third term in office.
Speaking in a video posted on social media on September 23, 2019, Conde urged the public to prepare for the upcoming referendum and elections, saying, "I ask you to get organised and prepare for a referendum and elections."
Conde's call for a referendum and elections has raised eyebrows, particularly given the constitutional ban on a third term in office. The 81-year-old president has been in power since 2010, becoming the first democratically-elected president of Guinea, a former French colony in West Africa.
However, Conde's presidency has been marred by controversy, including the use of deadly force by police to quell demonstrations. Scores of people have been killed, according to the opposition.
Conde's second term, the maximum allowed under the current constitution, is set to expire in October 2020. However, he has repeatedly questioned the value of term limits, sparking concerns that he may seek to extend his rule.
Conde's office did not immediately respond to questions from AFP regarding his plans for the referendum and elections.
