Although the West African republic of Guinea has been relatively calm since the democratically elected president took office in December 2010, legislative elections, which should have taken place shortly after the presidential elections, have been delayed.
On several occasions, large crowds of demonstrators representing members of various political parties have gathered along thoroughfares and at major intersections to protest. Protests turned violent on Feb. 27, 2013, resulting in nine killed and hundreds injured.
Travelers are urged to avoid public gatherings, to be familiar with their hotel evacuation procedures, to carry their travel documents with them at all times and to keep friends and family in the US apprised of their whereabouts.