Mauritania: Police crackdown on protesters in Nouakchott July 26

Event

The national police reportedly violently dispersed two protests held in the capital city Nouakchott on Wednesday, July 26. The demonstrations were organized by The Coordination for the Democratic Opposition, a coalition of opposition parties that oppose a constitutional referendum scheduled to occur on August 5. Security forces reportedly used tear gas and clubs to disperse protesters who gathered in the Sabkha and Arafatt districts of the capital. At least eight people were injured. According to police sources, the protests were not authorized by the government. Further protests are likely in the coming weeks.

Context

Several demonstrations have been carried out by a number of opposition parties against the proposed constitutional amendments, with thousands in Nouakchott participating in the protests.

On April 20, the government announced that a constitutional referendum would take place on July 15 before later rescheduling it for August 5. The proposed amendment to the country’s constitution, which has been in force since 1991, would abolish the senate, likely replacing it with regional councils, as well as three judicial bodies: the High Court of Justice, the High Islamic Council, and the Mediator of the Republic. It would also change the design of the national flag and the national anthem to recognize the violence endured during the country’s struggle for independence from France. The National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, approved the proposed amendments while the Senate, the upper house that would be abolished if approved, rejected them in March.

Mauritania’s next presidential election is scheduled to occur in 2019. President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz announced in October 2016 that he does not plan to run for a third term, which would be prohibited by the constitution. However, opposition groups claim the proposed amendments would allow him and his party to consolidate power ahead of the election and leave open the possibility of him running for a third term or selecting a successor.

Advice

Individuals present in Mauritania, particularly in Nouakchott, are advised to monitor the situation and to avoid all political events and public gatherings as violence may flare up without warning.

On a more general note, individuals present in Mauritania should remain vigilant due to various security concerns. Due to the threat of kidnapping, it is critical that foreigners remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc.