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Algeria
| 1 May 2013
Mobilisation of special forces in south amid major spillover from Mali conflict; security forces 31 March deployed thousands of special forces, ground troops, helicopters to Bechar, Adrar, Tindouf, Ghardaïa, Laghouat and al-Bayadh; same day arrested high-ranking AQIM member suspected of planning suicide attacks on Ghardaïa. Tensions over economic situation in south continued: thousands of jobless youths demonstrated in Tamanrasset, Ghardaïa. President Bouteflika 9 April appointed commission of experts to revise constitution, promised during Jan 2011 upheaval. Govt 22 April refuted allegations Ansar Dine seeking refuge on Algerian territory. Bouteflika hospitalised in Paris 28 April following “mild stroke”. 3 guards killed in terrorist attack in Tipaza 28 April, 70km from Algiers.
Mauritania
| 1 May 2013
Following meeting with President Abdel Aziz, French FM 15 April announced Mauritania will contribute troops to UN force in Mali, possibly 1,800 soldiers. National Pact for Development and Democracy, Movement for Refoundation and Democratic Renewal parties 21 April left presidential coalition CPM to join opposition. Chairman of opposition coalition Coordination of Democratic Opposition (COD) Mohamed Jamil Mansour 5 April said COD rejects any electoral process which is not result of national consensus, reiterated demand that Abdel Aziz cede power. Opposition MPs 23 April established commission to investigate allegations of drug trafficking and illegal business deals involving Abdel Aziz
Tunisia
| 1 May 2013
Political tensions eased somewhat as 3-day “national dialogue” talks between ruling An-Nahda and centrist opposition forces 18 April produced deal on 29 Dec 2013 election date; talks boycotted by main trade union UGTT and left-wing parties. An-Nahda Shura Council 29 April agreed on mixed parliamentary/presidential political system. Fears remain of increased political, economically-motivated violence ahead of polls amid frustrations over price increases, declining standards of living. Several days of violence mid-April in northern city Bizerte after soccer team barred from national championship, with riots taking on economic, anti-govt tone. Thousands protested in eastern city Sfax 21 April against An-Nahda govt, rising prices, alliance with Qatar. National Constituent Assembly (NCA) 23 April completed constitution draft. Some NCA members submitted motion to impeach President Marzouki 16 April, expected to survive challenge. Military court sentenced ousted president Ben Ali to life imprisonment in absentia. Govt and IMF finalised agreement on $1.75b loan. Govt released names of 5 suspects in Feb assassination of Chokri Belaid. Hundreds of Salafi youths reportedly arrested in crackdown on recruiting centres training them to fight with Syrian rebels.
Libya
| 1 May 2013
Car bomb exploded outside French embassy in Tripoli 22 April, injuring 5 and sparking fears of further attacks in capital. Confrontations between govt and armed groups continued: gunmen 1 April stormed Tripoli’s main Jadaida Prison, day after over 100 brigade members stormed Justice Ministry following order to transfer all detention centres staffed by brigades to govt control. Principal advisor to PM Zeidan, abducted 31 March by armed men, released 9 April; National Congress 9 April passed law ciminalising abductions and torture in effort to hold armed groups accountable. Gunmen late April surrounded foreign and justice ministries, attempt to storm interior ministry failed; said will lift blockade when govt adopts Political Isolation Bill banning Qadhafi-era officials from holding govt positions. PM Zeidan 17 April announced plans to create separate “National Guard” manned exclusively by members of revolutionary brigades as part of efforts to integrate armed groups into state security forces. Authorities 13 April said 20 arrested following attack on police compound in Sabha, south. Police convoy ambushed by gunmen in Tripoli suburb 18 April, 1 killed. National Congress 10 April voted to hold national elections for Constituent Assembly.
Western Sahara
| 1 May 2013
Polisario Front 17 April issued statement denying jihadis from Movement for Oneness and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO) have entered Sahrawi refugee camps. Human Rights Watch 17 April called on UNSC to task UN with monitoring rights violations in Western Sahara and in refugee camps around Tindouf, Algeria; following U.S. demand that MINURSO mandate be expanded to carry out “monitoring and reporting of human rights”, Morocco called off military exercises with U.S., engaged in intense lobbying against UN mission’s rights mandate at UNSC; 23 April MINURSO resolution now encourages “enhanced efforts and progress on human rights”.
Tunisia
| 1 Apr 2013
Political crisis partially attenuated as newly-appointed An-Nahda PM Ali Larayedh 8 Mar unveiled new govt; includes previous coalition partners Ettakatol and Congress for the Republic (CPR). Key ministries ceded to independents: career diplomat Othman Jarandi named FM, Lotfi Ben Jedou interior minister, Rachid Sabbagh defence minister, Nadhir Ben Ammou justice minister. 80 National Constituent Assembly representatives 15 March adopted end-of-April deadline for completing draft of new constitution, calling for presidential and legislative elections before end-2013. Social and political tensions remained high following Feb assassination of leading opposition figure Chokri Belaid; thousands demonstrated in Tunis 16 March, demanded end to An-Nahda govt. Concern continued to grow over deteriorating purchasing power and new round of economically-motivated self-immolation suicides.
Mauritania
| 1 Apr 2013
President Abdelaziz 4 March said country ready to join UN peacekeeping force in Mali “if situation improves”; Nigerien President Issoufou, Malian interim president Traoré and Moroccan FM Saad Eddine El Othmani visited early month to discuss Mali crisis. AQIM said it executed French hostage captured in 2011. Electoral Commission 28 Feb announced legislative and municipal elections, initially scheduled in 2011, now due Sept-Oct 2013. Initiative for Abolitionist Resurgence 10 March denounced arrests of 9 of its members in Kaedi.
Western Sahara
| 1 Apr 2013
French media 4 March reported Polisario Front fighters captured in Mali following battle with AQIM “emir” Abou Zeid. UN SGSR Ross 20 March visited Western Sahara, hoping to “end current impasse”. Polisario leader Mohamed Abdelaziz 16 March said Saharawi people will continue peaceful fight for independence, resume armed struggle “if necessary”.
Libya
| 1 Apr 2013
Series of violent interventions related to proposed “political exclusion” law barring Qadhafi-era officials from service caused political paralysis, bringing work of General National Congress (GNC) to a temporary standstill. Members of govt-affiliated brigade, purportedly defending war-wounded protestors, 3 March ransacked main GNC hall; armed men supporting political isolation law next day stormed GNC members in makeshift hall, and ordered them to approve bill; lawmakers allowed to leave building after 12-hour siege, but GNC president Magharief’s car shot at. Lawmakers suspended GNC mid-March due to threats. Chair of Human Rights and Civil Society Committee Hassan al-Amin 4 March announced resignation citing death threats. Govt-affiliated militia late Feb rounded up some 50 Egyptian Copts, accused them of proselytizing; further attacks on Copts reported. UNSC 14 March decided to not fully lift arms embargo, expressed concern over arms flowing from Libya into neighboring countries and over thousands of detainees held by militias. Unidentified armed men 30 March reportedly attacked military air base near Sabha, killing 3 soldiers.
Algeria
| 1 Apr 2013
Authorities early-month said roughly 400 armed al-Qaeda militants still active in Kabylie region; army reportedly killed 5 Islamists in Kabylie raid late March. Security forces 8 March killed 2 suspected terrorists near Constantine; 9 March dismantled al-Qaeda cell in Bordj Badji town; 12 March dismantled kidnapping network in Boumerdes; 5 March forcibly dispersed youth demonstration in Ghardaia. Alliance for Green Algeria (MSP, El Islah and Ennahda) 8 March called on govt to deepen investigation into financial and land tenure scandals.
Mauritania
| 1 Mar 2013
Court 11 Feb charged 2 suspected AQIM members with planning to fight in Mali. Rights groups issued communiqué expressing concern at spread of extremist teachings. Army 18 Feb began joint military exercise Flintlock-2013, led by AFRICOM and involving 19 other countries including U.S., France, Canada. Opposition Union des Forces de Progrès early-month called for formation of national unity govt as precondition for participation in next elections, and reform of electoral commission.
Western Sahara
| 1 Mar 2013
UNHCHR and rights organisations 19 Feb expressed concern about fairness of trial of Sahrawis who participated in riots at Gdeim Izik camp in 2010; after 2 years of pre-trial detention, military court handed out prison terms for 24 detainees ranging from time served to life in prison. Prisoners reiterated claim they were tortured in prison; Amnesty International called for retrial, investigation of torture allegations.
Tunisia
| 1 Mar 2013
6 Feb assassination of popular opposition politician Chokri Belaïd, member of Popular Front, prompted worst political and constitutional crisis since revolution, deepening polarisation between Islamists and secularists. Belaïd killing triggered mass protests throughout country, with clashes with police, demolition of police stations and Islamist party HQs. Over 150,000 gathered for Belaïd’s funeral 8 Feb; largest trade union same day called general strike in protest at murder. PM Jebali 6 Feb announced dissolution of govt in response to killing, intention to establish interim cabinet of technocrats to replace Islamist-led coalition. Popular Front same day announced withdrawal from National Constituent Assembly; Secular Congress for the Republic, led by President Marzouki, 10 Feb announced withdrawal from coalition govt to support PM Jebali’s attempt to form govt of technocrats, but quickly backed out of move. Jebali 19 Feb resigned following collapse of his plan for apolitical technocrat cabinet due largely to strong opposition from his own An-Nahda party. An-Nahda 22 Feb chose Ali Larayedh as new PM, who president tasked with forming new govt; thousands protested choice. An-Nahda party chief Ghannouchi 27 Feb said will allow independents to take over key “sovereign” ministries in next govt in concession to opposition. Govt 21 Feb announced arrest of Belaïd assassination suspects, later said killer identified. Ghannouchi said An-Nahda not behind Belaïd assassination; thousands marched 9 and 16 Feb in Tunis in support of An-Nahda and Islamist-led govt.
Algeria
| 1 Mar 2013
Security forces 6 Feb repelled attempt to overrun Khenchela garrison by 50 suspected Islamists, killing at least 2; 8 Feb arrested 2 AQIM would-be suicide bombers in Tinzawaten; 10 Feb arrested 10 suspected members of arms and ammunition trafficking network in El Bayadh; 11 Feb killed 2 suspected terrorists in Tizi Ouzou; 16 Feb killed 4 terrorists on border with Mali; 23 Feb killed 4 in Boukaal Medajadji and 8 in Boumerdès, including AQIM emir for Bordj Menaïel town. Interior Ministry mid-month banned Salafi Free Awakening Front party from holding founding convention. Security forces increased positions on border with Mali. 16 protesters arrested in Warqla province 14 Feb.
Libya
| 1 Mar 2013
Thousands took to streets 17 Feb to mark 2nd anniversary of revolution. Civil society organisations in Benghazi, supported by some armed groups, 15 Feb protested against govt over perceived failure to fulfil goals of revolution. Leaders of groups seeking autonomy for east cancelled planned 15 Feb protest rally citing feared violence. Congress 6 Feb approved direct election to constitution-drafting committee; committee 14 Feb unveiled draft “political isolation law”, which proposes to bar up to 36 categories of civil servants from senior govt, administrative positions for next 10 years. 4 Christian missionaries arrested in Benghazi for proselytising. FM Abdelaziz called for Western and Arab allies to help secure borders to prevent Islamist rebels influx from Mali. PM Zeidan denied reports Qadhafi-era PM Mahmudi tortured in jail.
Algeria
| 1 Feb 2013
AQIM splinter faction “Signatories in Blood” 16-20 Jan seized Tiguentourine gas plant near Ain Amenas, near Libyan border; at least 81 reportedly died in executions and multiple rescue attempts by security forces, official death toll 67. PM Sellal said attack coordinated by Canadian citizen, kidnappers from neighbouring states. Efforts to dislodge terrorist groups in Boumerdès-Tizi-Ouzou-Bouira triangle continued: security forces 31 Dec killed 6, including AQIM “financier” Izza Rezki alias Abou Djaffar, seized weapons cache in Keddara; 1 Jan killed 7 terrorists, reportedly part of El-Feth brigade, in Oued Bahara; 14 Jan killed 3 terrorists in Meskeline.
Tunisia
| 1 Feb 2013
Socio-economic protests in Ben Guerdane turned violent mid-Jan as demonstrators set fire to police station, cars; police used teargas to disperse crowd. Police officers 16 Jan repelled stone-throwing protesters in Kef with tear gas. Roughly 8,000 protested outside Interior Ministry 14 Jan against Islamist-led govt on 2-year anniversary of former president Ben Ali’s overthrow. 2 Muslim shrines destroyed 10, 12 Jan in Tunis suburbs, attacks blamed on hardline Salafists. Authorities 17 Jan said “terrorist” group arrested, large arms cache seized in southern town Medenin. Govt 29 Jan sent special combat units to borders with Algeria, Libya to protect oil and gas installations against potential attacks from Islamist militants. Thousands of policemen protested 31 Jan demanding better pay, equipment, protection.
Libya
| 1 Feb 2013
Continued attacks, killings, communal clashes. Italian consul Guido De Sanctis unhurt following 12 Jan gun attack on car. 2 police killed in separate attacks in Benghazi. Islamist leader Ahmed Abu Khattala and National Assembly President Magarief both survived separate assassination attempts. Head of Benghazi criminal investigation unit Abdel-Salam al-Mahdawi kidnapped 2 Jan. 4 killed 8 Jan in clashes between Tebu tribesmen and army in Kufra. Several EU states 24 Jan urged nationals to leave Benghazi due to security threat. Following attack on Algerian gas field, Libya 23 Jan strengthened security at oilfields near Algerian border. PM Zeidan 12 Jan met with Algerian and Tunisian counterparts, agreed to enhance security along common borders. Zueitina oil terminal re-opened mid-Jan following over-2 week closure due to armed protesters. UK PM Cameron visited Tripoli 31 Jan to discuss bilateral relations, pledge help training Libya’s security forces.
Mauritania
| 1 Feb 2013
President Abdelaziz 14 Jan deployed troops to secure borders with Mali; 15 Jan said Mauritania could intervene if Mali requests support; 22 Jan called for greater unity between Arab countries in fight against terrorism, organised crime. 3 suspected AQIM jihadis fleeing Mali arrested 28 Jan in Chegar.
Algeria
| 30 Dec 2012
Security forces 19 Dec arrested al-Qaeda in Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) senior member Salah Gasmi alias ‘Abou Salah’. AQIM “supreme emir” Abdelmalek Droukdel 3 Dec posted video warning France, African heads of state against military intervention in northern Mali; media early-month reported Droukdel “rupture” with head of Moulathamine brigade Mokhtar Belmokhtar and creation of new group known as “blood signatories”. French President Hollande 19 Dec met President Bouteflika in Algiers, recognised colonial-era abuses, signed 4-year strategic partnership agreement covering defence, agriculture, education, finance, industry and civil protection.
Libya
| 30 Dec 2012
General National Congress (GNC) 16 Dec announced southern provinces under state of emergency and ordered temporary closure of land borders with Chad, Niger, Sudan, Algeria. Ashour Shuail appointed Interior Minister after court 4 Dec cleared him of ties to Qadhafi regime; Mohamed Bargati appointed Defence Minister. 4 killed 16 Dec in one of several attacks on Benghazi police compounds and stations, 4 more killed in 20 Dec attack. 3 killed 15 Dec when security forces clashed with armed men in Bani Walid. Military tribunal 19 Dec suspended inquiry into death of rebel general Abdel Fattah Younes following protests in Tripoli over tribunal’s questioning of former National Transitional Council leader Jalil.
Western Sahara
| 1 Dec 2012
Security forces 3 Nov violently dispersed demonstration in Smara calling for self-determination, 10 injured. UN envoy Christopher Ross met with pro-independence Sahrawi activist Aminatou Haidar and members of Sahrawi parliament in exile, urged UNSC resolution to crisis.
Algeria
| 1 Dec 2012
Security forces 16 Nov killed Rabah Makhfi, al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb military chief responsible for Kabylie region, same day arrested 4 alleged members of Tizi Ouzou terrorist network suspected of providing support to al-Qaeda fighters in Mizrana region. Govt 18 Nov raised alert level for army units stationed in south ahead of planned ECOWAS intervention in Mali.
Tunisia
| 1 Dec 2012
At least 200 injured 27-30 Nov as protesters demanding jobs, economic development clashed with police in Siliana; army deployed 30 Nov to disperse protests. PM Jebali 30 Nov rejected calls for his resignation, accused opposition parties, unions of provoking the protests. President Marzouki same day asked PM Jebali to appoint new cabinet in response. Hundreds of Salafis demonstrated in Tunis 6 Nov against sweeping arrests. 2 Salafi activists died 16-17 Nov in hunger strike initiated following detention in connection with mid-Sept U.S. embassy attack. Imam involved in Oct attack on Manouba guard posts died 1 Nov from wounds sustained during clashes; new Manouba imam 1 Nov called for jihad against ruling An-Nahda in live TV broadcast; 1 killed and several injured as supporters clashed with police next day. Demonstrations continued in mining areas. Some 30 injured mid-month when clans clashed over agricultural land in Msaken in east.
Mauritania
| 1 Dec 2012
President Abdelaziz returned from France following recovery from 14 Oct shooting; Coordination for Democratic Opposition (COD) 2 Nov called for independent investigation into shooting, 21 Nov held rally in Nouakchott to demand president’s departure; Abdelaziz asked opposition to “be reasonable”.
Libya
| 1 Dec 2012
Newly appointed PM Zeidan and two thirds of cabinet sworn in 14 Nov under heavy security; 5 ministers still missing including interior, defence, religious affairs and foreign relations. 4 killed 4 Nov in inter-militia fighting in Tripoli; 2 killed 10 Nov in Jebel Nafusa in clashes between rival armed groups from Tiji and Kabau. Security official killed in attacks in Benghazi on 4 and 7 Nov. Benghazi security chief Farj Dreisi killed by gunmen 21 Nov. Trial of Qadhafi-era PM al Baghdadi al-Mahoudi, charged with corruption and ordering mass rape, began 12 Nov.
Algeria
| 1 Nov 2012
Parliament 2 Oct adopted new PM Sellal’s reform plan; govt authorised 5 new political parties. Minister for Maghreb/African affairs Abdelkader Messahel 7-8 Oct visited Sahel countries, said ready to negotiate with groups not engaged in terrorist/criminal activities; govt expected to deploy 9 additional border guard units along southern border before month’s end. Army 15 Oct killed AQIM “external relations chief” Bekaï Boualem in Boumerdès province. U.S. Sec State Clinton 29 Oct met President Bouteflika, asked Algeria to support military intervention in Mali.
Mauritania
| 1 Nov 2012
President Abdelaziz flew to France for treatment following apparent “friendly fire” incident 13 Oct, sparking speculation over his health; soldier suspected of being responsible 22 Oct gave interview to explain “mistake”.
Tunisia
| 1 Nov 2012
Ruling Troika of An-Nahda, Ettakatol, Congress for the Republic (CPR) met 13 Oct, agreed on semi-parliamentary system of govt with elected head of state, announced June 2013 parliamentary and presidential elections, after An-Nahda abandoned demand for constitutional criminalisation of attacks on religion. Arson attack 16 Oct on Sufi shrine blamed on Salafists; local leader of secular Nida Tounes party killed 18 Oct during clash between secularists, pro-govt Islamists in Tatouine. Thousands demonstrated in Tunis 22 Oct against killing, govt failure to stem Islamist violence. Hardline Salafis 27 Oct clashed with alcohol sellers in Tunis. Arrest of Salafi Islamist accused of assaulting head of Manouba’s public security brigade reportedly led to retaliatory attack on Tunis police station 30 Oct, 1 Salafi reported killed; ensuing clashes prompted deployment of security forces, extension of national State of Emergency to Jan 2013. Election anniversary 23 Oct also saw demonstrations against ruling coalition. Tunisian national arrested in Turkey for links to Sept attack on U.S. consulate in Libya repatriated to Tunisia 11 Oct, charged with terrorism. Court 24 Oct sentenced Islamist Ansar al-Sharia member Abu Ayab to 1 year in jail for inciting Sept attack on U.S. embassy in Tunis; group’s leader Abu Iyadh 23 Oct accused govt of being un-Islamic, U.S. puppet. Media workers 17 Oct began strike over govt interference; govt same day issued 2 decrees aimed at protecting press freedoms.
Libya
| 1 Nov 2012
Govt-affiliated brigade 17-18 Oct launched full-scale attack against former pro-Qadhafi stronghold Bani Walid, including shelling of civilian areas; at least 20 killed, hundreds wounded, thousands displaced; shelling earlier in month killed 3 Bani Walid residents, triggered tensions between Misratans and members of Warfalla tribe in Sebha and Sirte. Town declared “liberated” 24 Oct but militias preventing civilians’ return. Govt security forces continue to come under attack in east: 4 police killed 3 Oct at Souza checkpoint; Benghazi police chief survived assassination attempt 13 Oct. Govt mid-month said Islamist militant leader Abu Khattala suspected of role in Sept attack on U.S. consulate. Political crisis as General National Congress 7 Oct dismissed PM Abu Shaghour for failing to form cabinet; appointed independent Congress member Ali Zeidan new PM 14 Oct; new cabinet approved 31 Oct. Dozens of protesters stormed National Assembly 30 Oct, forced cancellation of vote on coalition govt proposed same day by PM Zeidan. Libya defended right to hold domestic trial of Saif al-Islam Qadhafi at ICC public hearing 9 Oct.
Mauritania
| 1 Oct 2012
Hundreds rallied 14 Sept in Nouakchott to protest anti-Islam film, demanded departure of U.S. ambassador. Govt 5 Sept extradited to Libya former Qadhafi spy chief Abdallah al-Senoussi, wanted by Libya and ICC for crimes against humanity. Govt 10 Sept denounced “barbaric massacre” of 16 Muslim preachers in Mali (see Mali).
Algeria
| 1 Oct 2012
Movement for Oneness and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO) 1 Sept executed Algerian consul kidnapped in April in Mali, said 3 remaining hostages will be killed unless Algerian govt releases 3 jihadi fighters arrested 15 Aug. Govt 12-13 Sept held regional conference to discuss Sahel crisis.
Western Sahara
| 1 Oct 2012
11 Sahrawi detainees in Laayoune’s “black jail” 1 Sept initiated hunger strike in solidarity with detainee held in solitary confinement. Polisario Front, Moroccan govt, MINURSO 16 Sept held 3rd meeting in Geneva to evaluate progress on implementation of confidence-building measures; U.S. Sec State Clinton 14 Sept restated U.S. support for Moroccan “Autonomy Plan for Sahara”.
“Un rapport dénonce un ‘climat de peur’ au Sahara occidental”, Le Monde, 4 Sept. 2012.
Libya
| 1 Oct 2012
U.S. ambassador Stevens, 3 others killed in 11 Sept attack on U.S. consulate in Benghazi; some 50 subsequently arrested over attacks; govt 17 Sept fired Benghazi security chiefs, Benghazi police mutinied in protest. Ansar al-Sharia 18 Sept denied responsibility, warned Libya would become “inferno for U.S. troops” if U.S. military retaliated. U.S. 20 Sept said “self-evident” that attack was “terrorist attack” with possibility of al-Qaeda involvement, announced investigation into possible collusion between militants, Libyan personnel guarding facility. Thousands marched in Benghazi 21 Sept in support of democracy, called on govt to disband militias, stormed HQs of Ansar al-Sharia, Rafallah Sehati brigades in Benghazi, resulting in 11 deaths, dozens injured; next day Abu Slim and Ansar al-Sharia of Derna militias withdrew from Derna. Army 23 Sept ordered unauthorised armed groups in and around Tripoli to leave state, vacate seized military premises or be forcefully ejected. Govt 24 Sept placed February 17 brigade and Rafallah al-Sahati militias under army command. Hundreds relinquished weapons in Tripoli, Benghazi 29 Sept following rallies calling for disarmament, disbanding of militias. Heavy anti-aircraft fire by Islamists 14 Sept targeting drones forced govt to temporarily close airspace over Benghazi airport. General National Congress 12 Sept selected Mustafa Abu Shagour as PM; issued 26 Sept ultimatum to Shagour to name new cabinet by 8 Oct. Mauritania extradited to Libya former Qadhafi govt spy chief Abdullah al-Senussi to face charges of crimes against humanity; Niger denied reports it agreed to allow Saadi Qadhafi to leave country; South Africa rejected reports it offered him safe haven. Omran Shaban, rebel who helped in former dictator Qadhafi’s capture and abducted in July, died 24 Sept after alleged torture. Former rebels demanding more recognition from Libya’s new rulers exchanged fire 25 Sept outside General National Congress.
Tunisia
| 1 Oct 2012
4 killed, 46 injured 14 Sept in attack on U.S. embassy and American school in Tunis over controversial anti-Islam film. Hundreds demonstrated 20 Sept against protestor violence; govt 21 Sept banned all demonstrations. Salafist leader Saif-Allah Benahssine 17 Sept escaped attempted arrest over attacks. 4 police officers arrested 10 Sept for death of prisoner. President Marzouki’s former aide Ayoub Massoudi received suspended prison sentence 22 Sept for insulting army. Protests planned after couple who made rape allegation against 2 police officers charged 26 Sept with public indecency.
Mauritania
| 1 Sep 2012
Coordination for Democratic Opposition (COD) parties 4 Aug rejected all proposed solutions to current political crisis, reiterated demand that President Abdel Aziz step down. President Abdel Aziz 6 Aug said ex-Qadhafi spy chief Abdallah al-Senoussi will not be extradited to Libya until legal proceedings in Mauritania complete, people tired of opposition protests; rights groups, opposition parties including COD condemned speech. Head of Initiative for Abolitionist Resurgence (IRA), Biram Ould Dah, detained since May, 9 Aug requested better medical treatment; dozens of IRA sympathisers 14 Aug held sit-in outside Justice Ministry to demand his liberation.
Tunisia
| 1 Sep 2012
Month saw countrywide protests: over 6,000 protested 13 Aug against language in new draft constitution defining gender roles; 14 Aug general strike in Sidi Bouzid called for release of protesters detained during previous demonstrations, court 15 Aug released protesters; 5 killed 16 Aug when Salafis attacked music, theatre festival, clashed with police. Sfax Hospital strike culminated in violent confrontations between police, protesters mid-Aug. Interior Ministry 16 Aug confirmed Ayoub Massoudi, former aide to President Marzouki, to be tried after criticising army; arrest warrant issued 24 Aug for TV channel director Fehri over satirical govt show.
Libya
| 1 Sep 2012
National Transitional Council (NTC) 8 Aug handed power to newly elected National Assembly; following day Mohammed Magarief chosen as President; National Assembly 29 Aug suspended 3 members for links with former Qadhafi govt. Hardline Islamists bombed, bulldozed Sufi shrines, set fire to mosque library 24-25 Aug; Interior Minister Fawzi Abdel A’al 28 Aug withdrew 26 Aug resignation that followed criticism of security forces, said would not risk armed confrontation with hardline Muslims behind shrine attacks. Month saw series of attacks against security facilities, officers: Benghazi military intelligence offices bombed 1 Aug; car bomb exploded 4 Aug near Tripoli military police offices; 3 car bombs exploded 19 Aug near Interior Ministry, security buildings in Tripoli, killing at least 2; police arrested 32 in connection with bombings; security forces 5 Aug killed 3 bombing suspects. Gunmen 10 Aug killed army general Hadiya Al-Feitouri in Benghazi. ICRC announced suspension of activities in Benghazi, Misrata following 5 Aug grenade, rocket attack on Misrata compound. Egyptian diplomat Abdelhamid Rifai’s car bombed 20 Aug. At least 3 killed in 23 Aug clashes between al-Haly, al-Fawatra tribes near Zlitan.
Western Sahara
| 1 Sep 2012
UNSG Ban late Aug stressed his confidence in UN envoy Christopher Ross, said will not cede to Morocco’s May 2012 demands for replacement. Security forces 25 Aug violently dispersed demonstration in Laayoune, several injured. Moroccan FM Saad Dine El Othmani 10 Aug said Polisario aided by Qadhafi arms, money.
Algeria
| 1 Sep 2012
Security forces 15 Aug captured 3 high-ranking AQIM members heading to the Sahel, including “emir” Necib Tayeb, wanted since 1995; army 31 Aug said 9 militants including Zemouri Abdelamalek, Al-Arkam leader, killed in 29-30 Aug operations. In video released 26 Aug, Algerian hostage held by Islamist rebel group MUJAO in north Mali pleaded for Algerian authorities to “save his life”, MUJAO threatened to kill Algerian consul to Gao if Algerian govt does not satisfy group’s demands. 4 gendarmes killed 2 Aug in shoot-out on Moroccan border. Interior Minister Dahou Ould Kablia 4 Aug said local elections to be held 29 Nov.
Tunisia
| 1 Aug 2012
Military court 19 July sentenced in absentia former president Ben Ali to life imprisonment, former interior minister Rafik Belhaj Kacem, former security chief Ali Seriati, 38 security officials to up to 20 years jail over deaths of protesters during revolution. Ennahda 12 July held first congress in country in 24 years; 16 July re-elected Rached Ghannouchi as party chief. Anti-corruption minister Mohammed Abbou 1 July resigned after accusing govt of failing to do enough to combat corruption. Govt 18 July granted license to Islamist group Hizb al-Tahrir allowing it to become legal political party. National Body for the Reform of Information and Communication 4 July announced it was disbanding over govt censorship.
Libya
| 1 Aug 2012
National Transitional Council (NTC) 30 July announced 8 August power transfer to newly elected General National Congress. Elections for 200-seat General National Congress took place 7 July; National Forces Alliance led by ex-interim PM Jibril won 39 out of 80 seats reserved for political parties, Muslim Brotherhood gained 17. Month saw pre-election violence by groups seeking more autonomy for East: election material in Benghazi destroyed 1 July; election material storage centre in Ajdabiya attacked 5 July; helicopter carrying election material 6 July struck by anti-aircraft fire near Benghazi killing 1; local militia 5-8 July shut down major oil exporting terminals in El-Sider, Ras Lanuf, Brega. Govt 2 July freed 4-member ICC defence delegation; ICC defence lawyer Melinda Taylor said fair trial for Saif Qadhafi impossible in Libya; Saif 31 July appealed for ICC trial, claimed execution following Libya trial would be murder. Former intelligence chief Buzeid Dorda, currently on trial, 10 July claimed underwent improper interrogation, right to meet privately with lawyer denied. President of Libya Olympic Committee freed 22 July after 1-week detention by gunmen in Tripoli. 7 Iranian Red Crescent staff abducted 31 July by unknown armed group in Benghazi. Khamis Qadhafi reportedly seen 25 July in northern Mali purchasing weapons, recruiting.
Mauritania
| 1 Aug 2012
Court 3 July sentenced 2 Salafi extremists to 3 years jail for inciting youth to join AQIM camps in N Mali; MUJAO 19 July freed 3 Western hostages in exchange for Salafis held in Nouakchott prison, $2-3 million ransom. Coordination for Democratic Opposition, including Islamist Tawawssul party, 18 July reiterated demand President Abdel Aziz step down. Police 15 July violently dispersed worker strike in copper mine, 1 killed, several injured. Militants of Initiative for Abolitionist Resurgence (IRA) 24 July staged demonstration calling for release of IRA head, Biram Ould Abeid, detained since May for burning Islamic Maliki legal texts condoning slavery.
Algeria
| 1 Jul 2012
National Election Monitoring Commission (CNISEL) 3 June reported legitimacy of May legislative elections compromised by violations. Authorities 4 June said UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances (WGEID) to oversee investigation into missing person cases, forced disappearances during 1990s. Delegation from Tuareg Islamist group Ansar Dine 21 June arrived in Algeria for talks on Mali crisis. Air force 20 June reportedly destroyed 3 vehicles in southern Tataouine supposedly transporting weapons from Libya.
Mauritania
| 1 Jul 2012
Opposition party Coordination for Democratic Opposition 9 June refused to recognise electoral commission (CENI) after presidential decree naming new CENI director. Court 10 June sentenced former human rights commissioner Mohamed Ould Dadde, in prison since 2010, to additional 3 years for embezzlement. Concerns over state of health of head of Initiative for Abolitionist Resurgence Birame Ould Abeid after doctors prevented from visiting him in prison.
Western Sahara
| 1 Jul 2012
Spanish FM Garcia-Margallo 20 June urged UN special envoy on Western Sahara Christopher Ross to engage with “central issues” surrounding disputed territory, called for lasting solution within framework of UNSC resolutions. UNSG Ban 17 June named Wolfgang Weisbrod-Weber new MINURSO head.
Libya
| 1 Jul 2012
Authorities in Zintan 8 June detained 4-member ICC defence delegation, alleged ICC-appointed defence lawyer transmitted letter harming “national security” during meeting with defendant Saif Qadhafi; ICC president Sang-Hyun Song demanded immediate release, cited diplomatic immunity; Deputy FM Abdel Aziz 6 June requested ICC cooperation, ICC 22 June promised to investigate allegations of wrongdoing upon release after visit by high-level Libyan delegation. ICC Pre-Trial Chamber 1 June postponed request for Saif Qadhafi’s surrender to ICC until decision reached over trial location. At least 105 killed, 500 injured in week-long clashes around Mizdah and Sghegha between Zintani militia, al-Mashasha tribe supportive of Qadhafi; govt 16 June called for immediate ceasefire, sent troops to end fighting. Tarhouna fighters 4 June occupied Tripoli airport demanding release of al-Awfea brigade leader believed detained by NTC; NTC forces retook airport after few hours, up to 40 arrested. Clashes in Kufra after army sent to quell fighting between rival Tebu, Zway tribes, over 60 killed. Convoy carrying UK Ambassador attacked 11 June. Bomb exploded 6 June outside U.S. diplomatic mission in Benghazi. Red Cross office in Misrata attacked 12 June, 1 wounded. Bomb exploded 26 June outside Tunisian consulate in Tripoli following 24 June extradition of former PM al-Mahmoudi from Tunisia; defence lawyer claimed al-Mahmoudi tortured upon arrival. First trial of senior Qadhafi-era official, former intelligence chief Buzeid Dorda, began 5 June. Supreme Court 14 June annulled recent law criminalising Qadhafi glorification, said law unconstitutional. Election commission head 10 June announced National Assembly elections delayed until 7 July to provide more time for campaigning, printing ballots.
Tunisia
| 1 Jul 2012
Month saw mounting political crisis caused by 24 June extradition of former Libyan PM Mahmoudi to Libya; President Marzouki 25 June said extradition “illegal”, decision taken without consultation, rebuked PM Jebali for allowing the extradition; 75 parliamentarians 27 June signed motion for no-confidence vote in Ennahda-led govt. Salafists 11-12 June clashed with police after defacing controversial art exhibition in Tunis, over 100 arrested; govt 13 June condemned rioting as acts of terrorism, 3-15 June imposed night time curfew. Military court 13 June sentenced in absentia ousted president Ben Ali to 20 years imprisonment on charges including incitement to murder. Former PM Beji Caid Sebsi 16 June launched new secularist political party Nida Tunisia. Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahri 10 June called on Tunisians to defend Islamic law.
Mauritania
| 1 Jun 2012
Demonstrations demanding resignation of President Abdel Aziz continued throughout month; opposition rally led by Coordination for Democratic Opposition (COD) violently dispersed 2 May. April burning of Islamic Maliki legal texts legitimising slavery by Initiative for Abolitionist Resurgence (IRA) head Biram Ould Abeid led thousands to march calling for banning of IRA; govt 24 May announced creation of High Council for Fatwas after several Haratine Imams called on Ulemas to issue fatwa “abolishing slavery”.
Western Sahara
| 1 Jun 2012
Morocco 17 May said UN Western Sahara envoy Ross biased, criticised April UN report accusing Morocco of spying on MINURSO. Human Rights Watch (HRW) 15 May denounced authorities’ failures to investigate Nov 2010 police beating of HRW researcher investigating human rights violations.
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