02 Jun 2018 | 10:29 PM UTC
Mali: At least 16 wounded during opposition protest in Bamako June 2 /update 1
Clashes between opposition protesters and police leave at least 16 people wounded in Bamako June 2; additional protests and clashes possible ahead of July 29 presidential elections
Event
Clashes between opposition protesters and police left at least 16 people wounded in Bamako on Saturday, June 2. Police forcibly dispersed a demonstration made up of several hundred opposition protesters outside of the Democratic Alliance for Peace headquarters who had planned to march in the capital, beating protesters with batons and firing tear gas. The planned march had previously been banned by authorities.
Additional opposition demonstrations and clashes between protesters and police are possible in Bamako in the coming weeks ahead of the July 29 presidential elections. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected near protest sites.
Context
Presidential elections will be held in Mali on July 29. According to the Council of Ministers, the official campaign period will start on July 7 and end on July 27. If necessary, the second round of the elections will be held on August 12. The elections have been repeatedly postponed since 2013, largely due to security concerns from the ongoing extremist threat. Cissé was confirmed as the opposition coalition's candidate on May 26 after receiving the support of the National Council of the Party for National Renaissance (PERENA), one of the other main opposition parties in the country. Current President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita also confirmed on May 28 that he will run for re-election.
Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite a French-led intervention launched in 2013 that drove many extremists from their strongholds. France maintains approximately 4000 troops stationed throughout the Sahel, in addition to the presence of local military troops.
Advice
Individuals in Bamako are advised to monitor the situation and avoid all political demonstrations as a precaution.
The security environment in Mali remains complex, particularly in the north and central regions. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
