27 Sep 2018 | 05:28 AM UTC
Côte d'Ivoire: Ex-rebels threaten to stage protest before October 13 elections
Several ex-rebels, now integrated into security forces, threaten to stage protests to demand the payment of bonuses before the October 13 Ivorian elections
Event
Several ex-rebels, including 283 gendarmes, 286 soldiers, and 287 police officers now integrated into the official army, have threatened to stage protests before the October 13 Ivorian regional and municipal elections to demand the payment of XOF 12 million (USD 21,000) in unpaid bonuses. Sociopolitical tensions are likely to run high ahead of the October elections; violent protests cannot be ruled out.
Context
Authorities have announced the deployment of 30,000 security forces members - including soldiers, policemen, and members of the gendarmerie - across the country ahead of the elections.
Security forces members held two mutinees in January and May 2017, as well as deadly demonstrations in May, to demand the payment of bonuses supposedly owed after the 2010-2011 post-electoral crisis. Though some of the mutineers obtained their bonuses after reaching agreements with the government, some are still seeking remuneration.
Advice
Individuals present in Côte d'Ivoire are advised to keep abreast of the situation, remain vigilant, avoid all protests and demonstrations, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities or their home governments.
