Mayotte: Calls to lift roadblocks April 2 /update 10

Event

Some unions and civil society groups behind the general strike - ongoing in Mayotte now for six weeks - called on Monday, April 2, for the lifting of associated roadblocks. According to a spokesperson the strike will nevertheless continue, albeit it in a different form. It is hoped the dismantling of the roadblocks will help facilitate ongoing negotiations with the government.

However, schools remain closed and the situation has reportedly become critical at hospitals in Mamoudzou, with the roadblocks disrupting medical supply deliveries and the transportation of the sick and injured. According to local sources, increased security measures, including additional gendarme patrols, have been deployed throughout Mayotte.

Context

These highly disruptive protests first broke out across the country on February 20 to denounce the increased influx of Comorian migrants and related security concerns. The department's population is thought to be approximately 43 percent undocumented migrants - a situation which has incited the local population to violence against immigrants, who are often blamed for rising crime rates in the department.

Advice

Individuals in Mayotte are advised to avoid all demonstrations, be prepared for continued disruptions to transportation and daily life, and keep abreast of the situation.