Burkina Faso: Authorities declare nationwide curfew Jan. 23 after earlier unrest, mutinies

Event

Officials have implemented a nationwide 20:00-05:30 curfew as of Jan. 23 in response to earlier unrest and mutinies at several military bases across the country. The government denied reports of a coup attempt and said that the situation had been contained. Officials said that they were in contact with soldiers about their demands; which reportedly include more resources and changes to the country's military leadership. Authorities suspended mobile internet services earlier Jan. 23 and it is unclear when they will be restored.

Officials will almost certainly deploy an increased security presence to ensure adherence to the curfew; associated localized transport, commercial, and telecommunications disruptions are also likely. The curfew could be extended in response to local developments. Additional protests or military uprisings are also possible in the coming days.

Context

On Jan. 23, soldiers at multiple bases, including several in Ouagadougou and the northern towns of Kaya and Ouahigouya, staged uprisings; security forces also forcibly dispersed civilians demonstrating in support of mutinying soldiers in the capital. The recent developments are indicative of growing pressure on the Burkinabe government over its failure to stem militant violence in the country. A notable attack near a gold mine in Inata, Soum Province Nov. 14 left approximately 50 soldiers dead and contributed to a notable increase in anti-government protest action.

In response, President Roch Marc Christian Kabore dismissed his prime minister Dec. 9, which by law triggered the resignation of the entire government. However, protests have continued, with unrest occurring Jan. 22.

Authorities have denied that the military uprisings were part of a coup attempt. However, officials disclosed Jan. 11 that they had arrested at least eight army personnel, including Lieutenant-Colonel Emmanuel Zoungrana, on suspicion of plotting to destabilize the government.

Advice

If operating in Burkina Faso exercise extreme caution until the security situation stabilizes. Avoid government buildings, security installations, large concentrations of police and soldiers, or any protests that may materialize. Heed the instructions of local authorities; remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.