Mali: Several protests planned in Bamako August 18-19

Event

Several protests are expected to take place in the capital city Bamako on Friday, August 18, and Saturday, August 19. Civil society group Waati sera called on activists to stage a sit-in in front of the French Embassy on August 18 to denounce what they perceived as the French army’s partiality in the northern region in favor of the Coordination of Azawad Movement (CMA) armed group. On August 19, the Antè A Bana - Touche pas à ma Constitution (Hands off my constitution) group will hold a demonstration to oppose the constitutional amendments proposed by President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and to demand the withdrawal of the constitutional draft, as well as the immediate prosecution of the President Keita by the High Court of Justice. Protesters are expected to gather at 09:00 (local time) in front of the Place de l’Indépendance and march to the National Assembly building at the Place Al Quods. Increased security measures and traffic disruptions are likely along the march route and near the French Embassy area. Further demonstrations are likely in the coming days and weeks.

Context

On August 3, the Waati sera movement organized a sit-in in front of the French Embassy in Bamako, which was highly criticized by President Keita.

The Malian government postponed the constitutional referendum on June 21, initially scheduled for July 9, to an as-yet undetermined date. President Keita and his cabinet stated that the decision was made in an effort to ease tensions, as the referendum faces heavy political opposition and has sparked numerous protests.

If adopted, the amended constitution would provide for the creation of a number of new institutions including a Court of Accounts and a Senate. It would also give new powers to the president and the National Assembly, such as presidential immunity from prosecution and the ability of Parliament to carry out future constitutional amendments without a referendum. The opposition has criticized these proposals, particularly the increased concentration of power in the hands of the president. Additionally, opposition members contend that the security situation in the central and northern regions makes it difficult to hold a free and fair vote.

Advice

Individuals in Mali are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the risk of violence and to anticipate an increased security presence in the event of further mobilizations.

On a separate note, due to the underlying terrorist and kidnapping threats prevalent in the country, all those present in Mali are advised to remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. When going out, always carry a reliable means of communication and inform a trusted contact of where you are going and when you plan to return.