29 Mar 2022 | 08:32 AM UTC
Mali: Protests planned in Bamako March 29 and April 1
Protests scheduled at Avenue de l’Independance, Bamako, Mali, March 29 and April 1. Increased security and road congestion likely.
Event
Two protests are scheduled along Avenue (also called Boulevard) de l’Independance in Bamako on March 29 and April 1.
The Yerewolo debout sur les remparts civil society group has called for a demonstration from 14:00 March 29 to welcome the arrival of pan-African activists.
Separately, civil society and political groups have called for a protest from 14:00 April 1 to demand that Mali leaves the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA).
The events will likely be well attended, along with an increased security presence, likely causing road traffic disruptions along the avenue. While the events will likely pass off peacefully, skirmishes between protesters and police remain possible.
Context
The ECOWAS representatives met in Ghana on March 25 and said they would maintain sanctions on Mali over delays to a return to civilian rule.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations and large concentrations of police and plan accordingly for ground travel disruptions. Heed the instructions of local authorities. Depart the area at the first sign of a confrontation.
