Civil Unrest Over Benin Elections

Benin’s presidential election is taking place today 11 April. Civil unrest disrupted the delivery of election materials to some locations in northern Benin, resulting in delays of voting operations in those areas. This past week, violent protests were reported from Cotonou and Bante.

The incumbent president is running for another term in spite of stating he would step down. The top candidate for a main opposition party was disqualified. Other top candidates have been arrested, disqualified, or are in exile. Critics accuse the president of authoritarianism and repressing the opposition.

Advice For Travellers

Continuing violent civil unrest is possible. Minimize safety risks by avoiding all large public political gatherings or other civil unrest due to the risk of violence.