Mali: Activists plan to stage a rally in Bamako May 25

Event

Activists affiliated with the Yerewolo Debout sur les Remparts civil society group plan to gather at the Sports Palace (Plais des Sports) in the ACI 2000 neighborhood of Bamako from 14:00 May 25. The purpose of the action is to demand the immediate departure of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) from the country and to endorse the referendum of the draft constitution. While the gathering is expected to pass peacefully, the indoor rally will likely draw several hundred people.

Authorities will likely deploy increased security around the sports complex as a precaution; localized business and transportation disruptions are possible. Given the pro-government nature of the rally, clashes between police and demonstrators are unlikely, except if protesters are overly disruptive.

Advice

Avoid any protests that materialize. Heed the instructions of local authorities. Keep away from areas where crowds appear to be forming, or security personnel are deploying. If clashes erupt nearby, leave the area immediately; if unable to do so, take refuge in a secure nongovernmental building.