Mali: Legislative elections postponed to November /update 15

Event

The Malian government announced on September 13 that the first and second rounds of legislative elections, initially scheduled to take place on October 28 and November 18, have been postponed to November 25 and December 16. An increase in demonstrations and political rallies is anticipated in the weeks leading up to the vote. Additional security deployments are likely at any type of event and clashes between protesters and security personnel are possible.

Context

The postponement has been justified by an ongoing magistrate strike which has prevented the registration of candidates in time for the initial scheduled dates.

On a related note, defeated opposition candidate Soumaïla Cissé continues to reject incumbent president Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta's victory in the August presidential elections, although his reelection has been confirmed by the Constitutional Court of Mali.

Advice

Travelers in Mali should carefully monitor the political developments and avoid all gatherings due to the risk of unrest. 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.