Mobile internet in, Nouakchott the capital city of Mauritania has been cut off since Monday night, following the announcement of the incumbent Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani’s victory in the presidential election.Â
This move came amid reports of disturbances in working-class districts of Nouakchott on Monday evening.
Witnesses described scuffles breaking out shortly after the election results were declared, leading to tensions in certain areas of the city.
Despite these incidents, Nouakchott appeared calm on Tuesday, with businesses operating as usual.
However, the authorities have yet to comment on the internet blackout.
Second-place candidate Biram Dah Abeid has denounced what he calls “massive fraud” in the election and has threatened to lead peaceful demonstrations.
Abeid is currently awaiting his team’s assessment of the election results before deciding on his next steps.
Internet restrictions during periods of unrest are not uncommon globally. Notably, the 2019 election, which brought Ghazouani to power, saw similar unrest, resulting in clashes, arrests, and a 10-day internet blackout.
The current situation remains fluid as the authorities continue to manage the aftermath of the election announcement.
