Guineans vote in tense election

CONAKRY: Voters lined up in Guinea's capital Conakry on Sunday to cast their ballots in a high-stakes presidential election, with the 82-year-old incumbent Alpha Conde bidding for a controversial third term. The poll - the first in a string across West Africa - follows months of political unrest, where dozens of people have been killed during security crackdowns on mass anti-Conde protests.

In Sunday's first round, Conde faces challenges from his old rival, the main opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo, and 10 other candidates.

There have been fears that recent tensions have taken on an ethnic dimension, with Conde accused of exploiting divisions during the campaign - a charge he denies. Police were out in force in Conakry, following clashes between rival supporters in recent days, but voting appeared calm.