Mali: Funeral for prominent opposition figure to take place in Bamako, Dec. 31-Jan. 1

Event

Authorities in Bamako will likely deploy increased security through at least Jan. 1 as part of preparations for the funeral of the late prominent opposition figure Soumaila Cisse. Cisse passed away in France on Dec. 25 where he had been hospitalized for coronavirus disease (COVID-19); his body will be repatriated to the Malian capital via an Air France (AF) flight scheduled to arrive at Modibo Keita International Airport (BKO) at 1400 Dec. 31. Funeral services will take place at the Amadou Hampate Bah Cultural Palace in Bamako on Jan. 1; the place of burial has not been announced.

Large crowds will probably assemble at BKO as Cisse's body arrives in the city, as well as during his Jan. 1 funeral. Large numbers of mourners may accompany the funeral cortege from the Amadou Hampate Bah Cultural Palace to the burial site, likely resulting in transportation disruptions. Increased police presence will almost certainly be deployed along any procession routes as a standard security precaution. Spontaneous protests by opposition activists cannot be ruled out.

Context

As leader of the Union for Republic and Democracy, Cisse ran for the Malian presidency three times. He was kidnapped by Al-Qaeda-affiliated militants in northern Mali in March while campaigning during the country's legislative elections; the government ultimately secured his release in October. Although he was defeated in his earlier bids for Mali's top office, Cisse was considered one of the frontrunners for the nation's 2022 presidential race.

Advice

Avoid large crowds and all demonstrations as a standard security precaution. Keep away from areas where security personnel appear to be deploying. Heed all instructions from authorities and allow additional travel time near gatherings.