Post-election internet cut leaves Mauritanians in the dark

On July 2, 2024, Mauritania shut down its internet connection amid protests against presidential election results declaring incumbent President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani winner, with 56.12% of the vote. The restriction, affecting key cities, including the capital Nouakchott, sparked concern over free speech suppression and information access.

The demonstrations were driven by supporters of opposition candidate Biram Ould Dah Abeid, who rejected the election results, labeling them as an "electoral coup." Abeid, who secured 22.10% of the vote, has been upfront with his criticism of the poll process. He’s calling out the National Independent Electoral Commission for bias while pushing for peaceful protests.

The internet cut started on the night of July 1, 2024. Persisting for 22 days, severely put over 250,000 people in distress. It primarily affected mobile internet services provided by Mattel and Chinguitel. Meanwhile, the largest telco, Mauritel, remained mostly operational. Despite this, the impact was profound, hindering everyday communication amid political unrest.

Government spokesperson Nani Ould Chrougha attempted to justify the shutdown as a necessary security measure. But critics argue strongly. Such actions are disproportionate and counterproductive, they say.

More often than not, it worsens tensions instead of quelling them. It is violative of rights—freedom of expression and access to information—enshrined in Mauritania's Constitution, as well as international agreements like the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

In the city of Kaédi, located in the Senegal River Valley, acts of looting and vandalism were reported on the night of July 1-2. Security forces confronted the rioters and made several arrests.

Two individuals arrested during these events tragically died in detention. A third died later in the hospital. The Ministry of Interior gave no more details on these deaths, only stating that the arrests were made late at night amidst tumult.

The capital Nouakchott and the northern city of Nouadhibou also witnessed disturbances. Over 200 arrests were reported in each of these places, per the Ministry of Interior. Many of the detainees were reportedly foreigners.

Like other world countries with similar censorship habits, Mauritania is not without a history of political instability, having had several coups occurring between 1978 and 2008. The 2019 election, which also saw Ghazouani win, was marred by clashes, arrests, and a digital blackout lasting about ten days.

In 2023, a nationwide block on mobile internet occurred after two days of widespread protests triggered by the killing of a young man at the Sebkha police station. Earlier that year, the government abruptly cut off mobile internet access after the escape of four prisoners from a Nouakchott prison.

The recurring use of internet shutdowns as a response to political dissent has drawn criticism from both national and international observers.

The #KeepItOn coalition, comprising Access Now, AfricTivistes, and the Electronic Frontier Foundation, outrightly condemned the shutdown. It urged the government to commit to uninterrupted internet access.

In a statement dated July 31, 2024, the coalition pointed out the detrimental effects on communities and businesses, emphasizing that such actions violate the nation's obligations under international law.

The coalition calls for transparency and accountability regarding past shutdowns and wants a refrain from future disruptions, particularly ahead of the presidential inauguration on August 1. “At the start of this new presidential term, we urge you to take a clear stance against any future use of internet shutdowns in Mauritania,” it says.

“Reform on this issue is a necessary foundation upon which other efforts to enhance press freedom, close digital divides, increase access to education and employment, and empower women, youth, and other vulnerable communities. The government of Mauritania has a duty to ensure that people can access the internet and communications services when they need it the most,” the statement reads.