21 May 2024 | 08:37 PM UTC
Benin: Trade union confederation calls for protest march in Cotonou May 22
Trade union confederation calls for protest march in Cotonou, Benin, from 07:00 May 22; heightened security, localized disruptions likely.
The Confederation of Benin Workers' Unions (Confederation syndicale des travailleurs du Benin, CSTB) has called for a protest march in Cotonou on May 22. The purpose of the march is to denounce the perceived high cost of living and arrests that occurred during the group's May 1 march. Protest participants plan to gather at Red Star Square (Place de l'Etoile Rouge) from 07:00 and march to the Labor Exchange (Bourse du Travail) past Saint-Jean Church and the UNAFRICA intersection. The number of people that would participate in the demonstration was not immediately clear.
Authorities will probably deploy an increased security presence to the march route to monitor the demonstration. Officials may close roads in the vicinity of the march on short notice. Localized transport and business disruptions will likely materialize in areas that are subject to protest activity and heightened security. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Avoid the protest march as a standard precaution. Keep away from areas where crowds appear to be forming or security personnel are deploying. If clashes break out nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Heed the instructions of local authorities.
