Gabon: Anti-austerity protest in Libreville July 27

Event

The Union of Civil Servants (USAP) is expected to hold a protest in the capital Libreville on Friday, July 27, to denounce new austerity measures proposed by the government. The rally is expected to start at 08:00 (local time) in front of the prime minister's office. A heightened security presence is likely in the vicinity of the event.

Context

On June 21, the government announced that further measures were to be implemented, including cuts to civil servant salaries, which has prompted discontent.

Numerous protests and strikes have taken place in Gabon in recent months in response to socioeconomic conditions and the unpopular government austerity policies. The Gabonese economy has suffered from the fall in global oil prices, upon which most of the country's revenues depend. Port-Gentil, the economic capital where oil activities are concentrated, has been especially hard-hit.

Advice

Individuals in Gabon are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of potential violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.