01 Aug 2018 | 05:09 PM UTC
Gabon: Anti-austerity protest in Libreville August 2
Anti-austerity protest expected in Libreville on August 2; avoid all protests
Event
Gabon's political opposition coalition is expected to hold a peaceful protest in the capital Libreville on Thursday, August 2, to denounce new austerity measures proposed by the government. The rally is expected to start at 13:00 (local time) at the Awendje basketball stadium. A heightened security presence is likely in the vicinity of the event and localized transportation disruptions are possible.
Context
On June 21, the government announced plans for additional austerity measures, including cuts to civil servant salaries, prompting public outcry.
Numerous protests and strikes have taken place in Gabon in recent months in response to socioeconomic conditions and the unpopular government austerity policies. The Gabonese economy has suffered from the fall in global oil prices, upon which most of the country's revenues depend. Port-Gentil, the economic capital where oil activities are concentrated, has been especially hard-hit.
Advice
Individuals in Gabon are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of potential violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.
