Guinea's junta may face growing discontent

Significance The explosion caused extensive damage in Conakry’s Kaloum peninsula, killing at least 25 people and injuring 454, with many remaining unaccounted for. Fallout from the disaster appears to be generating increasing popular discontent, including a rare spontaneous protest in Conakry this month. Already fuel shortages are starting to impinge on economic activity. Impacts Junta leader Mamadi Doumbouya is likely to run for president when elections are held. Guinea is likely to remain within the ECOWAS regional bloc. Doumbouya may seek a new contract with the Turkish Karpowership firm to make up for short-term electricity shortfalls. The Simandou iron ore project may also experience disruptions due to the fuel crisis. As discontent rises, the junta may seek to intensify restrictions on press freedoms