Mali: Nationwide judge strike continues October 11 /update 2

Event

The nationwide total strike by judges ongoing since August 28 continues as of Thursday, October 11, following unsuccessful negotiations with the government and despite an October 9 government decision to order the striking judges back to work. This decision has been deemed unconstitutional by the judges. Courts have been significantly impacted by the strike. Related demonstrations remain possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Judges are protesting low salaries and poor working conditions as well as demanding better workplace security.

Several other related strikes were held in previous months. 

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 due to the ongoing judge strike, which has prevented the registration of candidates in time for the initially scheduled dates.

Advice

Individuals present in Mali are advised to avoid all protests and gatherings due to the potential for violence.

On a more general 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.