Burkina Faso: Trial of alleged 2015 coup leaders suspended Feb. 27 /update 1

Event

The trial of 84 people, including two generals, suspected of being responsible for the failed 2015 coup was suspended until further notice on Tuesday, February 27, after the defense attorneys left the military court in Ouagadougou. One of the defense lawyers claimed that the court does not have the legal jurisdiction to judge the case, which prompted the lawyers to withdraw. As of Thursday, March 1, it is unclear when the trial will resume. Demonstrations related to the delay are possible in the coming days. Increased security measures are expected around the courthouse when the trial resumes.

Context

In September 2015 a coup d’état was launched when members of the Régiment de sécurité présidentielle (RSP) detained the country’s transitional government. The RSP seized control of Ouagadougou and proclaimed General Diendéré the new leader of the country. The coup was instantly unpopular and faced mass protests as well as immense regional pressure to restore the transitional government. Within days the regular army entered Ouagadougou to confront the RSP and the transitional government was restored to power.

Advice

Individuals in Ouagadougou should expect heightened security and are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

In general, 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 (31 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 border.