Equatorial Guinea: Protests canceled July 28 /update 1

Event

Protests by members of the Equatorial Guinea Innovation Party (CI) scheduled to occur in Malabo and Bata on Friday, July 28, have reportedly been canceled. The leader of the party decided to forego protests after reaching an agreement with the government that the CI would be able to participate in the next legislative and municipal elections scheduled to take place before the end of the year. A national census, to determine electoral counts, is scheduled to take place from August 1 to August 13.

Context

The CI, which was authorized in November 2015, has never participated in an election but has attracted many activists over the course of its meetings.

Current President Teodoro Obiang Nguema rose to power in a 1979 coup and has ruled the country for 38 years. He was elected in 1982 and 1989, running as the sole candidate, for seven-year terms before multi-party rule was introduced. Despite this, he was reelected in 1996 and 2002 with around 97 percent of the vote each time according to official tallies, and in 2016 with 94 percent of the vote. Opposition parties regularly challenge the legitimacy of Obiang's autocratic rule.

Advice

Individuals present in Equatorial Guinea are advised to remain cautious and avoid all demonstrations or other public gatherings. In addition, many Western governments recommend vigilance due to relatively high crime rates in urban areas, such as in the capital Malabo. Individuals present in the country should maintain a low profile as criminals may target foreigners due to their perceived affluence, be particularly vigilant after dusk, and avoid traveling by foot after nightfall. Criminals may be armed; do not resist if confronted (e.g., comply with demands to hand over items), and do not look your attacker(s) directly in the eye. Drive with windows rolled up and doors locked; all personal possessions should be stored out of sight.