Gabon: Foreign governments update travel advice following military takeover and cancelation of election, Aug. 30 /update 2

Event

Foreign governments, such as France, the UK, and the US, have advised their nationals to limit nonessential travel and avoid gatherings and military concentrations after a group comprising members of the security forces calling itself the Committee for Transition and the Restoration of Institution (CTRI) announced a coup early Aug. 30. The US advise to limit travel in the city center and the Presidential Palace area.

The CTRI dissolved institutions canceled the Aug. 26 general election results, and closed the country’s borders until further notice. Coup leaders also announced that President Ali Bongo Odimba is under house arrest, while other government officials and Bongo relatives have also been arrested. While there have been reports of gunfire in Libreville amid the coup attempt, the situation is calm in the capital as of the afternoon of Aug. 30. Peaceful pro-coup protests have been reported in Libreville and Port-Gentil.

The coup follows the announcement of the general election results overnight on Aug. 30, proclaiming outgoing president Bongo the winner with about 64 percent of the votes. Ahead of the results, the main opposition candidate, Albert Ondo Ossa, had accused the regime of election fraud. Officials implemented a 19:00-06:00 curfew and an internet blackout from Aug. 27. It is unclear whether the CTRI will amend the curfew. Internet services are gradually resuming across the country.

Disruptions to telecommunications are likely to continue. Security forces will likely remain deployed nationwide, notably in Libreville, in the coming hours and days. Security measures may include roadblocks, checkpoints, and searches of vehicles and pedestrians. Armed clashes between rival military factions may occur. Disruptions to government and business operations are likely. Protests in response to developments cannot be discounted, and any gathering is likely to be met by a security force deployment. Clashes between opposing political supporters and security forces may occur.

Advice

Shelter in place until the situation becomes clearer or stabilizes. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Avoid government buildings, security installations, and large concentrations of police and soldiers. Ensure contingency plans are reviewed and updated. Monitor developments closely with a trusted contact. Plan for disruptions at border crossing points. Reconfirm all scheduled transport services, including flights, before departure. Avoid all protests.