29 Sep 2023 | 10:16 AM UTC
Gabon: Coup leaders amend curfew hours nationwide as of Sept. 29 /update 6
As of Sept. 29, coup leaders amend curfew hours across Gabon after coup. Heightened security likely to persist.
Event
As of Sept. 29, the Committee for Transition and the Restoration of Institution (CTRI) amended the nationwide curfew in place following the Aug. 30 coup. The curfew applies 00:01-05:00 nationwide until further notice. Coup leaders justified the measure to facilitate commercial activities and the start of the school year. Authorities have previously warned that individuals will be detained through the end of the curfew if they do not abide by the measure.
Heightened security is likely to persist in major cities and at all ports of entry and exit through at least mid-October, 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 stage demonstrations. 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 caution if operating 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 possible disruptions at border crossing points. Reconfirm all scheduled transport services, including flights, before departure. Avoid all protests.
