Mauritania's election results will boost status quo

Significance

The results have provoked demonstrations, with three protesters dying in murky circumstances following their arrest. The runner-up candidate, Biram Dah Abeid, denounced Ghazouani’s victory as an “electoral masquerade” and called for peaceful protests. Mobile internet access has been restricted.

Impacts

• Ghazouani is not likely to face serious criticism from his Western partners over the election.
• Ghazouani may seek a third term in 2029.
• Unpopular EU-funded crackdowns on migration could exacerbate social tensions.
• Tensions with Mali over cross-border military incursions may escalate.