Mali: Increased security presence possible in Bamako after the arrest of key interim government figures in a possible coup attempt, May 24 /update 2

Event

Heightened security is possible in Bamako through late May following the detention of the Malian interim government's Prime Minister Moctar Ouane, President Bah N'Daw, and defense minister Souleymane Doucoure in a possible coup d'etat attempt, May 24. The arrests came after Ouane announced earlier that two colonels who were instrumental in the junta that took power in August 2020 would be replaced in a cabinet reshuffle. The armed individuals reportedly took the men to a military base in Kati, a bastion of the junta located north of Bamako. Key international partners such as France, the United States, and the European Union have denounced the move and are currently pressuring the army to release the civilian transitional leaders.

Reports indicate that flights are still operating at Modibo Keita International Airport (BKO) and that land borders and major entry and exit roads to Bamako remain open. Further details regarding the incident were not immediately released, and the situation in Bamako generally remains unclear as of May 25.

A heightened military presence could include additional checkpoints and patrols. Officials may implement movement restrictive measures, including road closures, in and around Bamako. Associated measures could impact transportation services and business operations. The status of international entry and exit points may change in the coming days in response to the developing political situation. Protests either for or against the recent detention of the interim government figures are possible nationwide. These are likely to occur in major cities near government buildings, in city centers, or near public squares.

Context

A transitional administration has governed Mali since the August 2020 coup d'etat that toppled then-President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. The country's political environment remains extremely tense due to ongoing political infighting related to the transition to civilian rule and the country's poor security situation in its north and central provinces. Reports indicate that the May 24 apparent coup leaders, led by transitional Vice President Assimi Goita (who led the original Aug. 2020 coup), were angered by the May 24 government reshuffle and are seeking to force the resignations of the transitional president and prime minister. However, international partners such as France, the United States, the European Union, etc have denounced the efforts and are currently pressuring the coup leaders to return the civil leaders to power.

Advice

Avoid any large crowds that may materialize in the days ahead. Heed the advice of security officials. Monitor local media and stay in regular contact with your embassy for updates to the security and political situations. Consider additional travel time if traveling in Mali. Travelers should also review travel plans and increase security awareness. Reconfirm the status of all scheduled transport services before travel.