01 Jul 2024 | 07:05 PM UTC
Mauritania: Increased security likely nationwide through at least early July following June 29 presidential election
Increased security likely across Mauritania through at least early July following June 29 presidential election; protests, clashes possible.
Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence across Mauritania through at least early July following the nation's June 29 presidential election. Incumbent President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani defeated the rest of the electoral field, including primary opposition candidate Biram Dah Abeid, with a sufficient margin to avoid a runoff. Abeid has rejected the results, alleging they are fraudulent and amount to an "electoral coup d'etat."
While Abeid's Refoundation for a Global Action (Refondation pour une Action Globale, RAG) party had not widely publicized any specific plans for election-related demonstrations as of July 1, opposition activists may nonetheless stage related protests in cities across the country, especially in Nouakchott, over the coming days. Officials will probably deploy security forces to monitor any political gatherings that materialize. Transport and business disruptions are likely in areas subject to rallies. Security forces may move to disperse any events that they perceive to be particularly disruptive, especially any that are supportive of opposition candidates. Clashes between political activists and security forces, as well as between supporters of rival candidates, cannot be ruled out. Authorities may impose curfew measures or telecommunications cuts on short notice in any areas that experience significant civil unrest.
Exercise caution while operating in Mauritania. Avoid all large public gatherings that materialize, including any political demonstrations, as well as concentrations of security forces. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Remain courteous and cooperative if you encounter a police checkpoint or are approached by security forces. Monitor local sources for information on any increased security measures that authorities may impose. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.
On June 30, activists staged protests in several neighborhoods of Nouakchott to denounce the partial electoral results published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (Commission Electorale Nationale Independante, CENI), which showed Ghazouani with a significant lead. Some protesters set trash cans and tires on fire. Security forces reportedly engaged in scuffles with the demonstrators and ultimately dispersed them with tear gas; security personnel also deployed to major intersections in the protest-affected areas.
