02 Jun 2021 | 10:57 PM UTC
Mali: Civil society groups call for demonstrations in Bamako June 3-4 /update 1
Civil society groups to rally around Monument de l'Independance in Bamako, Mali, June 3-4. Transport disruptions likely. Avoid the vicinity.
Event
Multiple civil society groups plan to stage political demonstrations in Bamako June 3-4. The purpose of the June 3 demonstration at the Monument de l'Independance, led by L'Appel Citoyen pour la Reussite de la Transition (ACRT), is to support the military-led transitional government under Assimi Goita. The opposition Mouvement du 5 Juin-Rassemblement des Forces Patriotiques (M5-RFP) has also organized a separate demonstration on adjacent Boulevard de l'Independance on June 4. Organizers did not immediately announce the start times for the actions. The planned demonstrations follow the detention and forced resignation of transitional civilian leaders May 24.
Heightened security and transport disruptions are likely around the Monument de l'Independance and adjacent Boulevard de l'Independance. Clashes are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse, particularly if no permission to gather is obtained before the demonstrations begin.
Context
Mali's political environment remains tense following the May 24 arrests and forced resignations of the transitional president, prime minister, and defense minister by elements of the armed forces. Malian civil society groups have protested the failure to return to full civilian rule since the August 2020 coup d'etat that toppled then-President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita's government.
Advice
Avoid the gatherings as a precaution. Plan for ground travel delays in the impacted area June 3-4. Monitor for updates regarding the events and associated disruptions.
