Burkina Faso: Trial of alleged coup leaders resumes November 5 /update 2

Event

The trial of 84 people, including a former military general and the former foreign minister, suspected of being behind a failed 2015 coup resumed in the capital Ouagadougou on Monday, November 5. The trial, which has been suspended multiple times, is open to the public and is taking place at a military tribunal located in the Ouga 2000 district. It remains unclear how long the trial will last. Increased security measures are expected around the courthouse, and demonstrations and gatherings are possible.

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 Gilbert Diendéré the new leader of the country. The coup was unpopular and provoked 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 are advised to avoid the area surrounding the courthouse as a precaution, monitor developments to the situation, avoid any protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to instructions issued by the local authorities.