24 Jan 2022 | 10:25 PM UTC
Burkina Faso: Heightened security likely in major cities after military announces coup d'etat Jan. 24 /update 3
Heightened security likely in major Burkinabe cities after military deposes President Roch Kabore Jan. 24. Curfew imposed, borders closed.
Event
Heightened security is likely in major Burkinabe cities, and especially in Ouagadougou, over the coming days after more than a dozen soldiers announced on state television Jan. 24 that a military junta had deposed President Roch Kabore, closed the country's borders, suspended the constitution, and dissolved the National Assembly. A nightly curfew is also slated to be in effect 21:00-05:00 until further notice.
The announcement of the military takeover, made on behalf of the Patriotic Movement for Safeguarding and Restoration (MPSR), claimed that the military had carried out a bloodless coup d'etat due to Kabore's perceived failure to unite the country and address its deteriorating security situation, driven by an escalating Islamist insurgency. The announcement also claimed that those detained in the coup were in a secure place; however, the whereabouts of Kabore were not immediately clear. The MPSR added that it would propose a calendar for new elections and a return to constitutional order "within a reasonable time frame."
The military announcement notably comes after the French Embassy in Burkina Faso issued a security advisory Jan. 24 advising French nationals to limit nonessential daytime travel and avoid traveling at night across Ouagadougou amid mutinies. The embassy further stated that French schools in the capital would remain closed Jan. 25. In addition, French carrier Air France (AF) announced it would suspend both of its flights scheduled from Paris (CDG) to Ouagadougou (OUA) Jan. 24. Turkish Airlines (TK) and Royal Air Maroc (AT) had also reportedly suspended their respective scheduled flights from Istanbul (IST) and Casablanca (CMN) to Ouagadougou Jan. 24. Earlier Jan. 24, the US Embassy in Ouagadougou issued a security alert noting that the embassy was closed due to "the uncertainty of ongoing security concerns throughout Ouagadougou."
Transport, commercial, and telecommunications disruptions are likely over the coming days. Notably, authorities have limited access to the internet; it is unclear when typical internet service will resume. Further flight disruptions are likely. Additional diplomatic missions may temporarily suspend operations. Demonstrations either in support of or opposed to the recent developments are also possible in major cities and towns across the country over the coming days.
Context
The Jan. 24 coup d'etat is the culmination of mounting popular and military frustration with the Burkinabe government over its failure to curb militant violence in the country. A Nov. 14 attack near a gold mine in Inata, Soum Province, left approximately 50 soldiers dead and contributed to a noteworthy increase in anti-government protest activity. In response, Kabore dismissed his prime minister Dec. 9, which by law triggered the resignation of the entire government; however, related protests have continued.
Bursts of gunfire were heard in Ouagadougou Jan. 23 as soldiers staged uprisings and demanded increased resources to fight the country's Islamist insurgency. Hundreds of residents demonstrated in the city's Place de la Nation to express their support for the mutiny; security forces, however, dispersed demonstrators with tear gas. Further demonstrations in support of the military takeover were reported in the capital Jan. 24 following Kabore's ouster.
Advice
Consider avoiding nonessential travel to Burkina Faso until the situation stabilizes. Persons in the country should shelter in place, maintain close contact with their diplomatic representation, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities, including curfew-related restrictions. Avoid government buildings, security installations, large concentrations of police and soldiers, and any demonstrations that may materialize. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Reconfirm transport services, including flight reservations, before leaving accommodations.
