23 Mar 2018 | 08:59 PM UTC
Burkina Faso: Trial of alleged coup leaders postponed to March 26 /update 1
Trial of alleged 2015 coup leaders in Ouagadougou postponed to March 26
Event
The trial of 84 people, including a former military general and the former foreign minister, suspected of being responsible for the failed 2015 coup is expected to resume in Ouagadougou at 08:30 (local time) on Monday, March 26. The court hearing, which has already been postponed multiple times, is open to the public and will take place at the Salle de Banquet de Ouga 2000. It remains unclear how long the trial will last. Increased security measures are expected around the courthouse, and demonstrations and gatherings are possible.
Context
The trial was suspended several times, including on March 22 and February 27. In September 2015 a coup d'état was launched when members of the Régiment de sécurité présidentielle (RSP) detained the country's transitional government. The RSP seized control of Ouagadougou and proclaimed General Diendéré the new leader of the country. The coup was instantly unpopular and faced mass protests as well as immense regional pressure to restore the transitional government. Within days the regular army entered Ouagadougou to confront the RSP and the transitional government was restored to power.
Advice
Individuals in Ouagadougou should avoid the area surrounding the court and expect heightened security. Individuals are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
More generally, 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, 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.
