Côte d’Ivoire: Opposition protest March 22

Event

A protest march, organized by Côte d'Ivoire opposition coalition group Président de Ensemble pour la démocratie et la souveraineté (EDS), is currently planned to take place on Thursday, March 22, in Abidjan. The march will be held ahead of senatorial elections, which are scheduled for Saturday, March 24. Details on the route of the march have not been released as of Monday, March 19, but traffic disruptions along the route are likely.

Increased security during the march, as well as in the lead up to election day more generally, is to be anticipated and violent clashes between demonstrators and police cannot be ruled out. On Saturday, March 17, police intervened at the public meeting in Yopougon, where the march was announced, reportedly using tear gas in an attempt to disrupt the meeting. Unconfirmed reports indicate at least one person present at the meeting suffered a gunshot wound during the confrontation; police have denied knowledge of any such injuries.

Context

The opposition is asking for the Independent Electoral Commission to be reorganized as the country prepares for a series of upcoming elections. In addition to senatorial elections in March, other municipal and regional elections are expected to take place later this year and presidential elections are scheduled for 2020. The current electoral commission has been accused of political bias and there are concerns over the accuracy of electoral lists and election security.

Following the disputed 2010 presidential elections, 3000 people died when rival supporters clashed in the streets of Abidjan. The unrest continued throughout the country for five months.

Advice

Individuals present in the Côte d'Ivoire are advised to monitor developments to the situation and to avoid any protests, rallies, or political events.