Burkina Faso: Heightened security is likely nationwide through at least mid-October following Sept. 30 coup /update 7

Event

Military authorities will likely maintain a heightened security posture across Burkina Faso through at least mid-October following the country's Sept. 30 coup d'etat. Security personnel remain deployed in Ouagadougou, although normal activities have largely resumed and there were no recent reports of widespread violence or clashes. Nevertheless, further protests and associated security incidents may occur with little or no warning despite a current ban on political activities. The most recent protest activity in the nation's capital has occurred near Place de la Nation and the RTB Burkina compound, although early demonstrations had targeted French interests in various parts of the country, as well as some prominent businesses.

The US Embassy has lifted the shelter-in-place restrictions for its citizens and embassy personnel. The French embassy and consulate general, on the other hand, remain closed until further notice, with the French foreign ministry advising its nationals to limit nonessential movement. Burkinabe authorities have reopened all land and air borders.

Additional checkpoints and patrols are likely in major cities. Heightened nationwide security measures could disrupt business operations, as well as air and land travel. The military junta could further suspend political and civil liberties, potentially sparking sporadic civil unrest; skirmishes between rival activist groups or protesters and police, as well as acts of vandalism, arson, and looting, are possible.

Context

Troops led by Captain Ibrahim Traore ousted the ruling military junta headed by Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba Sept. 30, dissolving the Burkinabe government. Coup leaders assert the overthrow was due to Damiba's alleged pursuit of his own political interests and failure to deal with the nation's deteriorating security situation, in addition to disagreements over who should partner with Burkina Faso in its fight against terrorism. Damiba had seized control of the country's government in a military coup in January. Traore plans to act as president until a transitional civilian or military president is designated in the coming weeks. Although this will assist in limiting the threat of clashes between opposing military factions, tensions will likely remain high across Burkina Faso in at least the near term.

Advice

Avoid any protests that may materialize as such gatherings can quickly become confrontational and escalate into violence with little warning. Consider restricting movement to essential activity only and limited to daylight hours. Maintain close contact with diplomatic representations and heed all instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid government buildings, security installations, and large concentrations of police and soldiers. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Reconfirm transport services, including flight reservations, before leaving accommodations. Plan for possible disruptions to telecommunication networks. Update and review contingency plans.