Burkina Faso: Protests likely to continue in Ouagadougou in near-term

Event

According to local reporting, police forcefully dispersed a demonstration that had gone ahead in central Ouagadougou on Saturday, October 21, despite a ban on protests. Supporters of the civil society group Democratic Expression Framework (CED) were protesting against alleged poor governance and arbitrary detentions, as well as the increase in terrorist attacks in recent months. Organizers claim that police used batons and tear gas to remove the groups. Four people are believed to have been arrested, including CED leader Pascal Zaida.

A heightened security presence has been observed around the Place de la Revolution, where further demonstrations are possible over coming weeks.   

Context

The “Citizens Watch” demonstration initially planned to be held on Sunday, October 7, was cancelled following a ban on demonstrations by the mayor of Ouagadougou. Burkina Faso is in the midst of a significant socioeconomic crisis, while also facing a heightened threat from terrorism. Protests by the political opposition as well as various sectors of society, public and private, regularly take place demanding better working and living conditions, condemning the government’s perceived mismanagement of the country, as well as their heavy-handed suppression of opposition elements.

Advice

Individuals in Burkina Faso should avoid any and all demonstrations due to risk of violence and anticipate potential transportation disruptions in the immediate area of any public gatherings.

On a separate note, due to the serious threats of terrorism and kidnapping, individuals present in Burkina Faso are strongly advised to be discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. A number of Western governments advise against all travel to areas within 50 km (30 mi) of the Malian border above the Dori-Niangoloko line. Nonessential travel to the western city of Bobo-Dioulasso and border regions of Tapoa province is also advised against due to unstable security conditions along the borders.