Mali: Opposition protest in Bamako September 15 /update 1

Event

Supporters of defeated opposition presidential candidate Soumaïla Cissé are calling for a protest on September 15 in the capital Bamako. Demonstrators plan to gather at Place de la Liberté on the day though no specific time has yet been given. Should the authorities decide to ban the march, there would be an increased likelihood of unrest. A significant security presence on the day can be expected.

Further related protests are expected to continue in the coming weeks, especially as long as several opposition figures remain imprisoned. 

Context

Despite Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta's confirmed reelection by the Supreme and Constitutional courts, Cissé and his supporters continue to deny his reelection and claim fraudulent results in the first and second rounds of the presidential election, respectively held on July 29 and August 12. Election observers have judged the election to have been fair overall, despite some irregularities and low voter turnout (34.4 percent). Keïta was inaugurated on September 4; a related demonstration held by the opposition on the same day attracted thousands of supporters though no incidents were reported. Similar well-attended gatherings also took place in Ségou, Sikasso, and Nioro (Kayes region) and in Bamako on September 1.

Advice

Travelers in Mali and specifically in Bamako are advised to closely monitor the situation and avoid all gatherings due to the risk of clashes between protesters and the security forces. 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.