Mali: Police threaten to protest in Bamako March 18-19

Event

Police have reportedly threatened to protest in the capital of Bamako on Monday, March 18, and Tuesday, March 19, if their demands for better working conditions are not met. Police have called on the government to provide all officers with an individual weapon, the payment of a food premium, and the payment of per diems to officers who supervised the last presidential election. Should the government fail to meet their demands, police plan to organize a sit-in before the National Police Headquarters on Monday, March 18, and before the Ministry of Internal Security and Civil Protection on Tuesday, March 19. Heightened tensions and localized transportation disruptions are likely should police carry out protests. Additional protests are possible in the coming weeks.

Advice

Individuals in Bamako should monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions by local authorities.