Gabon: Military reopens borders Sept. 2 following coup /update 4

Event

The Committee for Transition and the Restoration of Institution (CTRI) announced that air, land, and sea borders would reopen on Sept. 2 but that an 18:00-06:00 nationwide curfew would remain in place. Restrictions on the internet and some media have already been lifted.

Heightened security is likely in major cities and at all ports of entry and exit through at least mid-September following the military takeover on Aug. 30. 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 is likely to 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 takeover.

Advice

Exercise extreme 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.