Mauritania: Campaigning begins for presidential election June 7 /update 1

Event

The official campaign period for the upcoming June 22 presidential elections will take place between Friday, June 7, and Thursday, June 20, at 23:59 (local time). An increase in political rallies is expected in the coming weeks, as well as protests by opposition supporters. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are anticipated around all election-related events.

Political protests and associated clashes between demonstrators and security forces are not uncommon in Mauritania and cannot be ruled out through the June 22 election date.

Context

The first round in the country's upcoming presidential elections will be held on Saturday, June 22. If necessary, a runoff vote will take place on Saturday, July 6. Several major figures have declared their candidacy following incumbent President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz's decision to step down at the conclusion of his second term and not stand for re-election. Abdel Aziz previously led a 2008 coup that ousted Sidi Ould Cheikh Abadallahi from the presidency.

Foremost among the current candidates are former defense minister Mohamed Ould Cheikh Mohamed Ahmed, head of the 2005-2007 transitional government Sidi Mohamed Ould Boubacar, anti-slavery campaigner Biram Ould Dah Ould Abeid, and opposition stalwart Mohamed Ould Moloud. Candidates have until May 8 to declare their intentions to run.

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.