[liberationtech] Update on African authoritarians

[Richard Brooks]

Burkina Faso overthrew the government in October.
Thus far it looks like the new government has
broad support, there is little chaos, and things are
stable. Given a recent widespread revolt, the people at
the top are being careful.

Demonstrations against the Gabon kleptocracy this month have
resulted in multiple killings of demonstrators by law
enforcement.

An attack on the Gambian presidential palace while the
dictator was out of the country was defeated. Those
responsible are reported dead. The president has reportedly
returned home.

Togo and Chad have had waves of protests following the
changes in Burkina Faso. Togo's efforts appear to have
caused a new wave of repression.

The change of government by the Burkinabes has sparked
hope in the region, but it is not clear if there will be
any real contagion of change. there has been increased
protest and activism.

All of these countries have active blogger communities. One
common fear in these countries is a nationwide communications
(Internet, mobile, phone, etc.) black-out. These seem to
happen frequently at politically sensitive moments.