Mauritania: Anti-government protests planned in Nouakchott Feb. 7 and 10

Event

The National Forum for Democracy and Unity (FNDU) opposition group has called for anti-government protests in the capital city of Nouakchott on Wednesday, February 7, and Saturday, February 10. The demonstrations are reportedly being organized to protest the perceived poor governance and repression of the current regime, high taxes and prices of basic goods, and persistent unemployment, especially among young people, among other issues.

FNDU leaders are planning to start the protest on Wednesday at 16:00 (local time) at the "Three Dayat" area in the Arafat neighborhood of Nouakchott. Saturday's demonstration is expected to begin at 16:00 near the post office in the Dar Naim neighborhood of the capital. A heightened security presence and consequent transportation disruptions are expected in Nouakchott ahead of the planned protests; security forces may attempt to forcefully disperse demonstrators. Additional anti-government protests are possible in Nouakchott and throughout Mauritania in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Several anti-government demonstrations have been held in Nouakchott in recent months, protesting recently passed educational reforms and constitutional amendments.

Mauritania's next presidential election is scheduled to take place in 2019. President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz announced in October 2016 that he did not plan to run for a third term (which would be prohibited by the constitution). However, opposition groups claim constitutional amendments approved following a controversial referendum in August 2017 allow him and his party to consolidate power and leave open the possibility of him running for a third term or selecting a successor.

Advice

Individuals present in Mauritania, particularly in Nouakchott, are advised to monitor the situation and to avoid all political events and public gatherings as violence may flare up without warning.

On a more general note, individuals present in Mauritania should remain vigilant due to various security concerns. Due to the threat of kidnapping, it is critical that foreigners remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc.