28 May 2021 | 01:32 PM UTC
Mali: Civil society group calls for a demonstration in Bamako, May 28
Civil society group calls for demonstration at the Esplanade de la Bourse du Travail, Bamako, Mali, from 14:00 May 28. Avoid the vicinity.
Event
The National Youth Movement for the Support of Cooperation Mali-Russia (MNJSC Mali-Russia), a civil society group, has called for a demonstration at the Esplanade de la Bourse du Travail Bamako, from 14:00 May 28. The action has been called to push for a defense agreement between Mali and Russia. Dozens to a few hundred people may attend. Authorities have not officially sanctioned the event. The demonstration follows a small protest against foreign military forces in Mali in Bamako, May 28.
Heightened security and ground travel delays are possible near the event site. Clashes are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse, particularly if no protest permission has been obtained.
Context
Pro-Russia and anti-French demonstrations have increased in Bamako in the past year. French officials have recently denounced a perceived campaign to inflame local sentiments against France and its notable military presence in Mali by Russia and other outside powers. Additionally, the uptick in anti-French protests has occurred amid a worsening of Mali's security environment and increasingly militant violence.
Advice
Avoid the gathering as a precaution. Plan for ground travel delays in the impacted area through May 28. Monitor for updates regarding the event and associated disruptions.
