Guinea’s President Alpha Condé has said that a controversial referendum that intends changing the the country’s constitutional to possibly prolong his stay in power will be held on March 1.
Alpha Conde has come under under intense pressure since last year when reports emerged that he could seek a third term in office.
The opposition has opposed the intended referendum, triggering several protests that have ended deadly in some instances.
Guinea’s opposition has said it will boycott the referendum with Sidya Touré, leader of the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea party saying “There will be no election or referendum.”
Meanwhile the country will also hold legislative elections originally scheduled for February 16 on March 1.
Presidential adviser Souleymane Keita said the vote will go ahead regardless of an opposition boycott.
Alpha Conde is 81 years of age and is due to end his second and final five-year term next year.
But he has not ruled out running again. Conde has however asked his government to look into drafting a new constitution.
The move is seen by many as an attempt to hold onto power by changing the constitution.
Source: Africafeeds.com
