Victims of last December’s oil blast in Guinea’s capital, Conakry have protested against what they call failed promises of the military government to help rebuild their houses.
Hundreds of those affected held an impromptu demonstration on Thursday, which was led by women, paralysed activity in Kaloum, the administrative and business centre of Conakry.
The protesters carried placards with messages such as “we don’t want false promises”, “stop the killings”, “Guinea is suffering. Kaloum is suffering” and “We are tired! Our children are in danger!”.
The demonstrators blocked the highways in the morning, preventing workers from getting to their offices.
The blast left 20 people dead and at least 240 others were injured in the inferno.
Buildings were damaged, windows were blown out and residents were forced to flee their homes.
The protesters also condemned the government’s cut in food aid, the high prices of food items, as well as internet and media restrictions.
After hours of protest, the police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd.
