Buildings torched in Guinea ahead of referendum

Several government offices, schools and a police station were attacked to destroy voting material in Guinea ahead of a controversial constitutional referendum scheduled for Sunday.

The vote for a new constitution, due to take place on March 1 but delayed by Guinea's leader Alpha Conde, is seen by critics as an attempt by the president to extend his grip on power.

The government insists the vote is democratic.

Conde said Saturday he was sure the poll would take place peacefully, and added that he had followed the advice of fellow African leaders about cleaning up electoral rolls.

 

Buildings torched in Guinea ahead of referendum

Several government offices, schools and a police station were attacked to destroy voting material in Guinea ahead of a controversial constitutional referendum scheduled for Sunday. The vote for a new constitution, due to take place on March 1 but delayed by Guineas leader Alpha Conde, is seen by critics as an attempt by the president to extend his grip on power. The government insists the vote is democratic. Conde said Saturday he was sure the poll would take place peacefully, and added that he had followed the advice of fellow African leaders about cleaning up electoral rolls.