19 Jan 2021 | 04:43 PM UTC
Mali: Civil society group plans demonstration in Bamako Jan. 21 /update 2
Activists plan protests in Djelibougou neighborhood of Bamako, Mali, Jan 21. Localized disruptions possible.
Event
The civil society group Collective for the Defense of the Republic (CDR) plans to protest in the Djelibougou neighborhood of Bamako, Mali, Jan. 21. The purpose of the action is to protest the December arrest of the organization's spokesman Mohamed Youssouf Bathily, alias Ras Bath. Organizers plan to gather outside the CDR headquarters, reportedly near the Savana Restaurant, around 1330. Municipal authorities in Bamako previously denied a CDR application for a permit to hold a large march in the city on Jan. 8 due to concerns related to coronavirus disease (COVID-19); it is unclear whether officials will authorize the new protest scheduled for Jan. 21.
Should the protests go ahead as planned, authorities will almost certainly deploy increased police presence to the three protest sites to monitor the events. Localized transport disruptions could occur. Clashes between security forces and demonstrations cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Avoid all protests as a standard security precaution. Heed the instructions of security personnel. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the affected areas on Jan. 21.
