Location: Nationwide
Event: There is a possibility of demonstrations and civil disturbances today, March 22, in response to the passing of presidential candidate Guy Brice Parfait Kolelas.
The U.S. Embassy and consular section are closed to the public today, March 22, and have advised non-essential staff to remain home as we work to learn more about this developing situation.
The internet and SMS messaging have been blocked, and disruption of phone communications remains a possibility. Roads may be blocked and transportation, including commercial air travel, could be disrupted.
Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.
There is also a possibility of demonstrations and civil disturbances on the day that the Ministry of Interior announces the presidential election results. The Ministry is expected to announce the results several days after the March 21 presidential election.
The U.S. Embassy and consular section will also be closed to the public on the day that the Ministry announces the election results and the day following the announcement. All but essential Embassy staff are instructed to stay home on those days. U.S. citizens needing assistance on those days should contact the Embassy or the Bureau of Consular Affairs using the contact information below.
Actions to Take:
- Stay at home on March 22, as well as during the day that election results are announced and the following day. Contact the Embassy or the Bureau of Consular Affairs using the contact information below if you need assistance.
- Avoid crowds and demonstrations.
- Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates.
- Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
- Have adequate food, water, fuel, and other necessary supplies for several days in case security conditions require you to stay home.
- Avoid unnecessary travel and remain at or close to home until the risk of civil disturbance has ended.
- Give yourself extra time if you are traveling to the airport.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Read the country information page.
If you decide to travel to the Republic of the Congo:
- See the U.S. Embassy’s webpage regarding COVID-19.
- Visit the CDC’s webpage on Travel and COVID-19.
- Use caution when walking or driving at night.
- Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
- Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Report for the Republic of the Congo.
- Have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Brazzaville, Boulevard Denis Sassou Nguesso, Brazzaville, +(242) 06 612 20 00 or +(242) 06 612 20 10, BrazzavilleACS@state.gov
- https://cg.usembassy.gov/
- State Department – Consular Affairs: 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Republic of Congo Country Information
- Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
