Sierra Leone
At least five people died in protest against the government’s plan to move a power plant in Sierra Leone.
Police opened fire on demonstrators who were protesting against the dismantling of the Makeni thermal power plant in the centre of the country on Saturday.
Makeni is the largest city in the Northern Province of this West African nation.
The work was due to begin but young people opposed it. The protest escalated and rioters attacked several nearby buildings, including headquarters of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party.
Security forces then attempted to disperse the crowd with tear gas and live ammunition. As a result of the tense day, a curfew was imposed on Saturday evening.
The information minister explained that the move would not affect the city’s electricity supply and that the aim was to temporarily support the airport in Freetown, the capital, which was scheduled to reopen on July 22.
AFP
Go to video
Protesters want Morocco to sever ties with Israel, target strategic ports
Go to video
Syrian forces deploy in Damascus suburbs after two days of clashes
Go to video
Thousands of people rally in support of Burkina Faso's transitional president
02:11
DRC: Huge rally for peace in Butembo
Go to video
Haitians demand protection from surging gang violence
Go to video
Zimbabwe charges dozens for taking part in protests against President