Benin: Opposition rally in Cotonou March 11 /update 1

Event

The Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin (Forces Cauris pour un Bénin émergent, FCBE) plans to stage a rally in Cotonou on Monday, March 11. The rally has been organized 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. Attendees plan to march from the Stade de l'Amitié Général Mathieu Kérékou to Place de l'Étoile Rouge via Vêdoko. Although the demonstration has been approved by the authorities, a heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected. Further such rallies, along with associated opposition protests, are likely in the coming weeks. 

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.