Burkina Faso: Protests likely over the coming days nationwide through at least early October amid the one-year anniversary of coup

Event

Demonstrations are likely nationwide through at least early October to commemorate the first anniversary of the military coup on Sept. 30. Pro-government activists will likely stage rallies to support the transitional President Ibrahim Traore and demonstrate solidarity with the people of Niger and Mali. Demonstrations are possible in locations across several cities, including at Place de la Nation in Ouagadougou and Place Tiefo Amoro in Bobo Dioulasso. It is unclear how many people the demonstrations will draw; however, the most significant participation will likely be In Ouagadougou.

Authorities will likely deploy additional personnel around any protests that materialize as a precaution; localized business and transportation disruptions are possible. Given the pro-government nature of the demonstrations, clashes between authorities and demonstrators are unlikely, except if protesters are overly disruptive.

Context

Following alleged increased tensions between elements of the Burkinabe Security and Defence Forces (SDF) and junta authorities reported in French media outlet Jeune Afrique on Sept. 21, the security situation and diplomatic relations with France in Ouagadougou has been acutely tense. Pro-junta supporters, dubbed "Guardians of the Transition," have maintained vigilance in the capital city for some time. Late Sept. 26, activists in support of the transition staged a demonstration at the United Nations Roundabout to prevent a possible destabilization of the transitional government amid rumors of a coup d'etat by elements of the security services. Similar pro-junta rallies erupted with little-to-no warning in Bobo-Diolassou and Gaoua, Southwest Region. While the overnight events largely transpired without significant incident, activists have demonstrated their capacity to stage protests with little-to-no warning through the use of social media channels to rally participants.

Advice

Avoid any protests that materialize. Exercise a high degree of caution in the affected location and heed the instructions of authorities. Keep away from areas where crowds appear to be forming, or security personnel are deploying. If clashes erupt nearby, leave the area immediately; if unable to do so, take refuge in a secure nongovernmental building. Monitor local media for updated information. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if stopped at a security checkpoint.