Mauritania: Ruling party wins September 1 elections /update 3

Event

According to provisional results released on Sunday, September 9, the ruling Union for the Republic (UFR) party is expected to come out on top of the legislative, regional, and local elections that were held on September 1. The UFR has already won 67 of the 157 seats at the National Assembly, a majority in four out of 13 regional councils, and a majority in 108 of 219 municipal governments. A runoff election will be held on September 15 where necessary. Demonstrations are possible, as well as an associated heightened security presence.

Context

The elections were held without major incident, with a voter turnout of 73.4 percent.

The country will hold its presidential election next year. Despite President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz's assurances that he will not defy the constitution and seek a third term, there is popular speculation that he may attempt to run again.

Advice

Individuals in Mauritania are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

In general, individuals present in Mauritania should remain vigilant due to various security concerns. Due to the threat of kidnapping, it is critical that foreigners remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc.