Burkina Faso: Activists plan sit-in protest in front of French Embassy in Ouagadougou Aug. 12

Event

The Mouvement pour la Renaissance du Burkina (MRB) has called for a sit-in protest in front of the French Embassy in Ouagadougou from 14:00 Aug. 12. It is unclear for how long participants plan to gather. Organizers also mentioned a “liberty march” without providing any march itineraries. Hundreds to low thousands may attend. Participants intend to denounce recent alleged discourteous comments made by the French ambassador in Burkina Faso.

It is unclear whether authorities have granted permission for the gathering. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are likely in the vicinity of the embassy. Clashes with security forces remain possible if protesters are overly disruptive and/or target the embassy building with debris.

Advice

Monitor local media for protest updates. Avoid the vicinity of the French embassy. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Abide by all official directives.