CAR: Constitutional Court validates presidential election results, Jan. 18; unrest possible.

Event

Election-related demonstrations are possible across the Central African Republic in the coming days after the Constitutional Court validated President Faustin Archange Touadera's election victory, Jan. 18. This followed the National Election Authority (ANE)'s confirmation of Touadera's victory. The court rejected all appeals of annulment but revised voter turnout numbers to 35 percent, down from 76 percent declared by the ANE. Foreign governments continue to maintain warnings for the country in response to insecurity generated during the election period; the French government issued a warning Jan. 18 noting the ongoing insecurity in the country. France currently advises its nationals to limit nonessential travel in Bangui and to avoid travel outside of the capital.

Authorities are likely to maintain an elevated security presence nationwide, particularly in the capital, Bangui. Opposition parties may call for demonstrations and strikes in areas under government control. Recent episodes of post-election violence have resulted in fatalities; further violence, including a possible rebel assault on Bangui, is likely. Ground travel and business disruptions are likely near all unrest sites.

Advice

Maintain a heightened level of security awareness. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Avoid all demonstrations due to the possibility of violence. If clashes break out nearby, take shelter in a safe, non-governmental building. Heed all security personnel instructions and allow additional travel time near gatherings. Reconfirm the status of all routes before departure. Consider avoiding travel at night.