Mali: First round of legislative elections scheduled March 29 /update 17

Event

The Malian Government spokesman announced on Wednesday, January 22, that the first round of the 2020 legislative elections will take place on Sunday, March 29. The elections, initially scheduled for 2018, were postponed several times for security reasons. The second round is scheduled on Sunday, April 19, for constituencies in which no candidate or list of candidates obtained an absolute majority of votes in the first round.

An increase in demonstrations and political rallies is anticipated in the weeks leading up to the vote, particularly during the election campaign. An increased security presence is likely at any political rallies or gatherings, and clashes between protesters and security personnel are possible.

Context

The current Parliament was elected in the 2013 elections, which gave a substantial majority to President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta. The assembly was initially due to be renewed in October and November 2018, after Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta's re-election as president but were postponed several times. First due to a magistrates strike, then due to the deterioration of the security situation and political quarrels.

Advice

All those present in Mali are advised to keep abreast of the situation and the sociopolitical climate and avoid all public gatherings due to the risk of violence.

The security environment in Mali remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel. Due to the underlying terrorist and kidnapping threats prevalent in the country, all those present in Mali are advised to remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.