Mauritania: Ruling party wins June 22 presidential elections /update 1

Event

On Sunday, June 23, Mauritania's electoral commission declared candidate of the ruling party and former defense minister, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, the winner of the June 22 presidential elections, with 52 percent of the vote. His nearest rival, Biram Dah Abeid, came second with 18.58 percent, and Mohamed Ould Boubacar received 17.85 percent of the vote. As of Monday, June 24, the initial results have not been validated by the Constitutional Council, which will consider of possible challenges; the four opposition candidates have announced their intention to challenge the results.

Demonstrations and associated roadblocks took place in Nouakchott on Sunday, June 23, after Ould El Ghazouani declared victory shortly after polls closed, prompting localized unrest in the capital, notablyin the Riyadh, El Mina, and Sebkha districts, where protesters clashed with police and erected road barricades. Further disruptive protests and clashes are possible in the coming days, along with a heightened security presence and transportation disruptions.

Context

Mauritania held presidential elections on June 22 pitting incumbent President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz's handpicked successor, Mohamed Ould El Ghazouani, against anti-slavery campaigner Biram Ould Dah Ould Abeid, and four other candidates.

Advice

Individuals in Mauritania, particularly in Nouakchott, 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.