Mali: Civil society group plans protest marches in several parts of Bamako Feb. 19

Event

The civil society group Collective for the Defense of the Republic (CDR) plans to march through neighborhoods in Bamako Feb. 19. The purpose of the action is to protest the December 2020 arrest of the organization's spokesman Mohamed Youssouf Bathily, alias Ras Bath. Organizers have made no announcement as yet concerning a specific start time, locations, or the planned march routes; however, they have stated that several wings of participants will begin marching from different parts of the city and ultimately converge on the CDR headquarters located in the Djelibougou neighborhood. Municipal authorities in Bamako have reportedly rejected the CDR application for a permit to hold the march due to concerns related to COVID-19.

Should the protests go ahead as planned, authorities will almost certainly deploy increased police presence to monitor the events. Localized transport disruptions could occur. Clashes between security forces and demonstrators cannot be ruled out. Security forces have previously used tear gas to disperse CDR gatherings held without proper permits. The CDR has held several protests demanding Ras Bath's release since late December 2020.

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 Feb. 19.