Gabon: Students clash with police during Libreville protest Oct. 24

Event

University students reportedly clashed with police during a protest at the University of Science and Health in Owendo, Libreville, on Wednesday, October 24. Local reports indicate that a number of students were injured and others arrested, though they were subsequently released. Further protests are likely in the coming days.

Context

Students are protesting a potential increase in tuition fees across the country, announced in June by the Ministry of Higher Education. Though the increase was suspended by the High Court in September, students continue to hold protests.

Political tensions have also been rising in the country more generally in recent months. Widespread unrest followed the August 2016 presidential elections, which saw Ali Bongo reelected by a narrow margin amid allegations of a rigged vote. Although the security situation has since largely stabilized, tensions remain. In early September, police forces reportedly dispersed at least 300 opposition supporters demonstrating in Libreville. Further such protests may break out with little warning, and could quickly become violent.

Advice

All those present in Gabon are advised to closely monitor developments to the situation and avoid all public gatherings due to the risk of violence, which can flare up with little warning.