24 May 2024 | 01:19 PM UTC
Burkina Faso: Rallies possible countrywide through at least late May amid national deliberations
Pro-government rallies possible nationwide in Burkina Faso through late May amid national deliberations May 25-26 on junta rule extension.
Pro-government rallies are possible nationwide through late May during and immediately after the May 25-26 national conference, determining the continuation of the junta leadership pending the expiration of the 21-month transition period. The national meeting is scheduled to begin at 08:00 May 25 in Ouagadougou's Ouaga 2000 District. The conference will allow representatives to deliberate on extending the transitional military government set to expire on July 1.
Heightened security presence and localized transport and business disruptions are likely near any rallies that materialize. Clashes with security forces cannot be ruled out, particularly if anti-junta activists attempt to assemble nearby. Rallies are possible in major cities countrywide, particularly near foreign diplomatic missions, public squares, and government buildings. Demonstrations can manifest with little to no warning.
Avoid all rallies as a standard precaution. Heed the instructions of local authorities. If violence occurs, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building.
Heightened tensions will likely persist in the medium to long term in Burkina Faso under the military transitional government led by President Ibrahim Traore, who has been head of government since September 2022 following a coup d'etat. Sahel junta leadership, including Burkina Faso, have often cited ongoing domestic security challenges facing their countries as justification for a continuation of transitional governments delaying prospects for democratic elections. The Government of Burkina Faso will likely extend the transitional regime indefinitely, given pressing security challenges and various states of emergency countrywide.
