Chad: Opposition to protest in Ndjamena, April 2

Event

Opposition National Union for Democracy and Renewal (UNDR) party plan to demonstrate near the Paris-Congo area of the 6th arrondissement and at the Paris-Congo Municipal Stadium, in Ndjamena, during the afternoon April 2. The action is to call on the public to boycott the April 11 presidential election. The authorities have declared the gathering unauthorized.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy heavy security in any areas where demonstrations materialize. Although UNDR leaders have stressed their intent that any such gatherings remain peaceful, clashes between protesters and security forces are likely. Police will not hesitate to employ riot control measures, such as tear gas and water cannon, to disperse crowds.

Context

Notable security incidents and disruptions have already occurred ahead of the polls with opposition groups calling for repeated protests to oppose President Deby's plan to contest the election. Fatal violence also took place after security forces attempted to arrest opposition candidate Yaya Dillo in N'Djamena, Feb. 28. As many as five people are reported to have been killed; however, this figure remains disputed. The main opposition candidate, Saleh Kebzabo, withdrew his candidacy in the polls reportedly in response to the violent attempted arrest of Dillo. Kebzabo remains on the ballot despite the announcement of his withdrawal.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations and large concentrations of police. Heed the instructions of local authorities. Exit the area at the first sign of any confrontation. Seek updated information on route and destination security, as well as road conditions before conducting ground movements. Plan accordingly for disruptions to ground travel and mobile communications.