Mauritania: Ruling party victory confirmed /update 4

Event

The electoral commission confirmed on Monday, September 17, the victory of the ruling Union for the Republic (UPR) party in the second round of the legislative, regional, and municipal elections that were held on September 15. The UPR has won a total of 93 of the 157 seats at the National Assembly, the majority in all the 13 regional councils, and 169 of 219 municipal governments. 

Context

The elections were held without any major incident.

The country will hold its presidential election next year. Despite President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz's assurances that he will not defy the constitution and seek a third term, there is popular speculation that he may attempt to run again.

Advice

Individuals in Mauritania are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.