The planned presidential run—off election in the west Africa nation of Guinea has been postponed for a third time, prompting fears about the former French colony’s return to democracy.
Guinea has been under a military junta of Moussa Dadis Camara since the death of long—standing president Lansana Conte in 2008.
After he was named president, Mr. Camara promised to transfer control to a civilian government.
When it appeared in late 2009 that the soldiers might seek to hold onto power, mass protests erupted, leaving more than 150 people dead and 1,000 injured.
At the conclusion of a meeting of the Electoral Commission late Friday, Siaka Toumani Sangare confirmed the delay to Sunday’s election — without giving a fresh date.
“It is clear to all parties that the original deadline of October 24 cannot be observed,” Mr. Sangare said, cited by Guineenews.com.
The run—off between former Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Diallo and the longtime opposition leader Alpha Conde has been postponed twice already. Clashes between supporters of both men have led to violent confrontations already.
Mr. Sangare added that both sides must commit to speedy organisation of a fresh ballot in order to meet the “historic opportunity” of a democratic election.
Mr. Sangare, an army general from neighbouring Mali, was only appointed to head the Electoral Commission on Tuesday, and immediately reported irregularities with voting paper distribution, and the theft of electronic records.
The run—off was originally scheduled for mid—September following a first round of voting in June, but the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) asked for more time to prepare for the vote.
Earlier this week, two people were reported killed in clashes between police and supporters of the two presidential candidates.
The election could produce the first democratically elected leader since 1958, when Guinea won independence from France.
