06 Jan 2021 | 10:34 PM UTC
Mali: Civil society group plans protest march Jan. 8
The Collective for the Defense of the Republic (CDR) will march in Bamako, Mali, Jan. 8. Transport disruptions likely. Avoid large crowds.
Event
A civil society group called the Collective for the Defense of the Republic (CDR) plans to march in central Bamako, Mali, Jan. 8. The event follows the arrest of its leader, Ras Bas, by security authorities Dec. 21. The march will begin at Bamako's Trade Union Center (Bourse du Travail) and end at the Independence Monument. Malian authorities have not granted the march approval.
Heightened security and transportation disruptions are expected. Clashes between security forces and demonstrations are possible, especially given that authorities have not authorized the event.
Context
Mali has experienced large demonstrations in recent months following the coup d'etat against the civilian government of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in August 2020. Protests are often peaceful, but some end in clashes between protesters and security forces.
Advice
Avoid all protests due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the affected areas, Jan. 8.
