Mali: Police in Bamako utilize tear gas to disperse protesters on September 10

Event

Police have reportedly utilized tear gas to disperse supporters of the Rassemblement des Forces Patriotiques (M5-RFP) coalition who had gathered outside of the International Conference Center in Bamako on Thursday, September 10. Around 100 supporters of the M5-RFP are said to have clashed with police at the entrance to the center, which is currently the venue for the first day of consultations over Mali's political future. Unconfirmed reports state that similar clashes have also taken place at Monument de l'Independance. A heightened security presence, as well as associated disruptions to transportation, are to be expected around the demonstration site.

Further demonstrations and counter-demonstrations are to be expected in the coming days and weeks, and violent unrest cannot be ruled out. 

Context

President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita announced his resignation, as well as the dissolution of the National Assembly, around midnight on August 18, during a televised appearance. The announcement came following the detainment of the President and other government officials on the afternoon of August 18 during a military coup. The junta is currently in talks with the opposition and civil society groups about a transition to civilian rule, and reports indicate that the junta intends to rule for two years before transitioning; however, ECOWAS members reportedly want the transition to happen sooner.  

Advice

Those in Bamako are advised to monitor developments, heed any directives issued by local authorities, and maintain a heightened sense of situational awareness.