20 Sep 2022 | 02:22 PM UTC
Chad: Protests in N'Djamena Sept. 21 and 24
Activists to protest at the Place de la Nation in N'Djamena, Chad, Sept. 21 and 24. Avoid all demonstrations.
Event
Activists affiliated with the Wakit Tama Citizen Action Coalition plan to protest at Place de la Nation in N'Djamena from 07:00 Sept. 21 and 24. Organizers are calling for participants to gather to oppose the current military transitional government and the Inclusive National Dialogue (IND) among other issues. Organizers have planned the gatherings despite an existing government-imposed ban on protest activity.
An increase in security presence is likely around all protests. Security personnel may engage in crowd control measures; clashes between demonstrators and police are possible. The events will likely cause localized travel disruptions. Local businesses may close before the demonstrations or in response to any incidents of unrest. Activists may organize further protests with little or no warning.
Context
Activist groups are denouncing the lack of civic participation in the national dialogue, freedom of expression, detainment of political opponents, and calling for the immediate return to civilian rule through democratic elections. The Transitional Military Council (TMC) has taken a strong stance against opposition demonstrators; a ban on protest activity has been in effect since April 2021.
Chad's political and security environment remains unstable following the April 20, 2021, death of longtime President Idriss Deby Itno. The appointment of the late president's son, Mahamat Deby Itno, as the head of the TMC, along with an 18-month transition period, the suspension of the constitution, and the National Assembly, sparked nationwide protests against the transitional government. The transitional government has suppressed opposition groups from peacefully demonstrating, and security forces have been accused of human rights abuses associated with the use of excessive force against protesters.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations and heed the instructions of local authorities. Consult with trusted local sources for updated information on any protests as organizers may not announce gatherings in advance. Keep away from areas where crowds appear to be forming or security personnel are deploying. If clashes erupt nearby, exit the area immediately; if unable to do so, take refuge in a secure non-governmental building.
