Several authorities have issued a warning due to planned demonstrations in Bamako on Saturday. The marchers will be protesting against perceived corruption in the recent election, rejecting the outcome of the vote. The election campaign was marred by violence and with many of Mali’s polling stations were closed on election day, reportedly due to the threat of more violence.

Voice of America reports that ‘the exact numbers of voters who were disenfranchised by violence is not known, but they could easily become a flashpoint if the vote is close. Ministry of Territorial Administration figures showed that, of the roughly 23,000 polling stations that were meant to open, 4,632 were disrupted by “armed attacks or other violence,” of which 644 were unable to operate.’

Travel advice

There are links to government travel advice below that contains further information.

  • You should avoid demonstrations, large crowds of people and public events.
  • Review your travel risk management plan, so you know what to do in an emergency.
  • Make sure you have the contact information of your travel insurance company and your local embassy stored in a secure offline location.
  • Monitor local media.
  • If possible, set aside some supplies of food and bottled water.
  • Keep your devices charged.
  • Check in with friends and family.
  • If something does happen, contact the local embassy as soon as it is safe to do so.

The security alert issued by the US Embassy in Mali on 24th August 2018-

Location: Announced gathering points include, but are not limited to, the following places in Bamako, Mali:

  • Place de la Liberte
  • Monument d’Independence
  • Bourse du Travail

Event: At 08:00 on Saturday, August 25, 2018, opposition leaders are planning a peaceful march to protest electoral fraud and reject the final presidential election results.  The march is scheduled to start at the Place de la Liberte, continue to the Monument d’Independence, and end at the Bourse de Travail.  While the demonstration is intended to be peaceful, recent protests have encountered a strong police/security force presence, the use of tear gas, and other riot control measures.

U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the listed locations during the morning and afternoon hours of August 25.

Actions to Take:

  • Avoid the areas of the demonstrations
  • Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
  • Monitor local media for updates on locations and time of the demonstration.
  • Keep a low profile.

Please click here to read more, including contact information.

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