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MEDIA ADVISORY, Jan. 25 /Standard Newswire/ -- Plan has temporarily closed its offices in Guinea as a result of the continuing violence and instability in the country.

Guinea is now in the second week of an unofficial 'national strike' called by the country's powerful trade unions to protest against the rising cost of living, which they say is caused by governmental economic mismanagement and corruption. Violent clashes between government security forces and trade unionists have intensified over the past two weeks with a reported 37 people killed.

A call by the unions for public 'in-action' appears to have been heeded, with most towns throughout the country resembling ghost towns. The leaders of the main trade unions have subsequently been arrested and their fate is currently uncertain.

In the capital Conakry, the site of the bulk of the casualties, clashes are continuing amid unconfirmed reports that the President of Guinea Bissau has sent troops to 'help' his friend President Conteh of Guinea maintain control.

Plan areas affected

There have also been violent demonstrations in both Kissidougou - where the Plan country office is based - and in N'Zerekore - a Plan program area. Two people are reported killed in Kissidougou.

All Plan staff that are not from N'Zerekore have been moved to other relatively calmer areas. Plan offices will remain closed for the foreseeable future with local staff advised to stay at home.

As soon as the security situation allows, Plan will perform a full assessment on how best to help the children and families affected.

Find out more about Plan's work in Guinea