Burkina Faso: Clashes reported in Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso amid anti-government protests Nov. 27 /update 1

Event

Clashes have been reported in Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso as of Nov. 27 amid ongoing protests to denounce the degenerating security landscape. As of the afternoon, police in Ouagadougou have continued to disperse protesters at multiple locations using teargas. It remains unclear whether police have used live ammunition. Unconfirmed reports indicate that several protesters have been injured amid the clashes. Protesters previously erected roadblocks using burning material and threw stones at security forces as well as the city hall building. Business and transport disruptions are also ongoing. Information regarding the protests in Bobo Dioulasso remains limited, though clashes have reportedly occurred there as well. Additional anti-government protests remain possible in urban centers throughout the country.

Police are highly likely to remain deployed throughout Ouagadougou and in other urban centers where violence has occurred. Transport and business disruptions are likely to persist over the coming hours. Clashes may also continue through Nov. 27. Foreign nationals may be targeted given the increased anti-French sentiment.

Context

Tensions are high across the country in recent weeks amid deadly attacks in the north in recent weeks and demonstrations taking place in Kaya since Nov. 18 to denounce insecurity and French military presence. Protesters prevented a French military convoy from passing through the area. Confrontations between French forces and protesters left several people injured, Nov. 21.

As of Nov. 22, French authorities advise French nationals to postpone travel to the country, for citizens present in Burkina Faso to limit nonessential travel over the coming days, to not leave main urban centers, and to stay home Nov. 27 given the potential anti-French sentiment of the protest.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations nationwide Nov. 27. Allow additional time to reach destinations near protest venues. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Abide by all official directives.