14 Mar 2019 | 12:38 PM UTC
Benin: Opposition march to take place in Parakou March 15 /update 2
Opposition march planned in Parakou March 15 to protest exclusion of opposition parties from upcoming elections; heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions to be expected
Event
The Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin (Forces Cauris pour un Bénin émergent [FCBE]) is slated to stage a demonstration in Parakou (Borgou department) on Friday, March 15. Demonstrators are expected to march from the Hubert Maga roundabout to the prefecture building via Abdoulaye Issa Street and the Kobourou Palace. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected along the march route. Similar rallies, along with associated opposition protests, are likely in the coming weeks.
Context
The Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin (Forces Cauris pour un Bénin émergent [FCBE]) has staged several rallies over the previous week to protest the March 5 decision by the National Independent Electoral Commission (CENA) to exclude several opposition parties from upcoming legislative elections (April 28), including the FCBE.
Advice
Individuals in Benin are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
