06 Oct 2017 | 03:38 AM UTC
Burkina Faso: Oct. 7 protests banned in Ouagadougou; rally Oct. 21 /update 2
Anti-government and anti-terrorism protests planned for October 7 in Ouagadougou banned due to security concerns; further protests scheduled for October 21
Event
A “Citizen’s Watch” demonstration by the civil society group Democratic Expression Framework (CED) scheduled to take place in Ouagadougou on Saturday, October 7, has been banned by city authorities due to security concerns. The group has vowed to continue its protest and intends to organize a rally on Saturday, October 21. It is unclear if authorities will authorize this new demonstration to go ahead. CED supporters are protesting against alleged poor governance and arbitrary detentions, as well as the increase in terrorist attacks in recent months.
Context
Burkina Faso is in the midst of a significant socioeconomic crisis, while also facing a heightened threat from terrorism. Protests by the political opposition as well as various sectors of society, public and private, regularly take place demanding better working and living conditions, condemning the government’s perceived mismanagement of the country, as well as their heavy-handed suppression of opposition elements.
Advice
Individuals in Burkina Faso should avoid any and all demonstrations due to risk of violence and anticipate potential transportation disruptions in the immediate area.
On a separate note, due to the serious threats of terrorism and kidnapping, individuals present in Burkina Faso are strongly advised to be discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. A number of Western governments advise against all travel to areas within 50 km (30 mi) of the Malian border above the Dori-Niangoloko line. Nonessential travel to the western city of Bobo-Dioulasso and border regions of Tapoa province is also advised against due to unstable security conditions along the borders.
