13 Sep 2023 | 09:13 AM UTC
Gabon: Coup leaders amend curfew hours as of Sept. 13 /update 5
As of Sept. 13, coup leaders amend curfew hours in Libreville and across Gabon after coup.
Event
The Committee for Transition and the Restoration of Institution (CTRI) amended the nationwide curfew as of Sept. 13. The following now apply:
22:00-06:00: Libreville
18:00-06:00: Select areas on the outskirts of Libreville, between Marseille and Akanda, as well as from Nkok and Sobraga towards Owendo
19:30-06:00: Rest of the country
Authorities warned that pedestrians will be detained through 06:00 the following day if they break the curfew.
Heightened security is likely in major cities and at all ports of entry and exit through at least mid-September, despite the reopening of air, land, and sea borders on Sept. 2. Security measures may include roadblocks, checkpoints, and searches of vehicles and pedestrians. Further peaceful protests in support of the coup may occur, including in Libreville, Port-Gentil, and Franceville. Opponents of the coup may also demonstrate. Any such gathering will likely be met with a security force deployment; the potential for clashes is elevated at such events.
Context
The CTRI, under the leadership of Brice Oligui Nguema, assumed control of the country on Aug. 30. It canceled the Aug. 26 election and placed former President Ali Bongo Odimba under house arrest. The move followed the release of election results which proclaimed Bongo as the winner with 64 percent of the vote. Ahead of the release of the results, the main opposition candidate, Albert Ondo Ossa, had accused the regime of election fraud. The period since the coup has been relatively peaceful. Various governments have issued travel advisories for its nationals in Gabon in the wake of the coup.
Advice
Exercise heightened caution if operating anywhere in Gabon. 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.
