Guinea election commission chief dies ahead of run-off

Paris, 14 Sept-(ANA)-The head of Guinea's election commission has died, amid speculation that Sunday's presidential run-off could be postponed.

Ben Sekou Sylla was convicted of fraud during the first round in June, raising the first serious doubts about the second round.

Following a weekend of violence in the capital, the prime minister has warned that security is more important than holding the vote on time.

The first round was seen as Guinea's first democratic vote since independence in 1958, raising hopes of an end to military and authoritarian rule in the mineral rich country.

But correspondents say the fraud conviction and the violence are now raising serious doubts about the credibility of the second round.

The two candidates, former Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Diallo and veteran opposition leader Alpha Conde, held separate emergency talks with the prime minister on Monday and pledged to control their supporters.

At least one person was killed and 50 injured during the weekend clashes, prompting the authorities to ban all campaigning. (ANA)

FA/ANA/14 September 2010---------