Mauritania: Increased security likely nationwide through at least mid-July following June 29 presidential election /update 1

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence across Mauritania through at least mid-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."

The Ministry of Interior announced that at least three protesters died in Kaedi, bordering Senegal, amid clashes with security forces from late July 1-early July 2. Similar protest activity has been reported in Nouakchott, Nouadhibou, and Boghe, among other affected locations. Internet disruptions have also been reported across the country during the protests, likely caused by the government.

Abeid has called for peaceful protests and gatherings. Opposition activists may 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. Further 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 additional telecommunications cuts on short notice in any areas that experience significant civil unrest.