Mali: Demonstration in Bamako rescheduled for October 15 /update 1

Event

A protest is scheduled to take place in Bamako on Thursday, October 15, to denounce accusations against the previous government over electoral fraud. The demonstration, which has been organized by Mali's Autonomous Union of Civil Administrators (SYNAC) and the Workers' Union of the Ministry of Territorial Administration (SYLTMAT), is due to begin at 08:00 (local time) at Monument de l'Independance, after which participants will march towards Cite Administrative. The demonstration was previously scheduled to take place on October 14, however, has been rescheduled to October 15.

Previously associated demonstrations have resulted in clashes between protesters and local police, with the deployment of teargas and small arms fire being reported.

The protest comes ahead of a planned three-week strike by civil servants affiliated with SYNAC and SYLTMAT from Monday, October 19, over pay and working conditions.

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are expected near any demonstration sites.

Advice

Those in Bamako are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.