The Mauritanian Network for Human Rights in US (MNHRUS) unequivocally condemns the violent assault carried out against Biram Dah Abeid president of IRA(Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist movement in Mauritania) during a peaceful demonstration organized on July 1, 2026 in support of Members of Parliament Mariem Cheikh Dieng and Ghamou Achour, who remain detained under conditions that have been described as inhumane.
This shocking attack constitutes a serious violation of the fundamental rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and political participation. It is yet another alarming indication of the continued deterioration of human rights and democratic freedoms in Mauritania.
According to President Biram Dah Abeid, after the assault he and his wife sought medical treatment at a hospital but were unable to receive the care they needed because doctors and healthcare providers declined to treat them. If confirmed, such actions would represent a grave violation of the right to healthcare and would raise serious concerns about political interference in the provision of medical services. We call for an independent investigation into these allegations and for all healthcare professionals to be allowed to carry out their duties free from political pressure or intimidation.
The Mauritanian Network for Human Rights in US holds the Mauritanian government, including the Ministry of the Interior and the security forces under its authority, fully responsible for ensuring the safety, physical integrity, and fundamental rights of President Biram Dah Abeid and all peaceful citizens exercising their constitutional freedoms.
The increasing use of violence against peaceful demonstrators, elected officials, and human rights defenders reflects a dangerous pattern of repression designed to silence dissent and intimidate those who challenge injustice. Such practices are incompatible with Mauritania’s obligations under international human rights law, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
We call for the immediate release of all individuals detained for peacefully exercising their fundamental rights, including Members of Parliament Mariem Cheikh Dieng and Ghamou Achour. We further demand an impartial investigation into the violent assault against President Biram Dah Abeid and that those responsible, regardless of rank or position, be held accountable.
We also call upon the United Nations, the African Union, the European Union and all governments committed to democracy and human rights to publicly condemn this escalation of repression and to closely monitor the rapidly deteriorating human rights situation in Mauritania. Continued silence in the face of these abuses risks encouraging further violations and deepening the climate of impunity.
The Mauritanian Network for Human Rights in US stands in unwavering solidarity with President Biram Dah Abeid, Members of Parliament Mariem Cheikh Dieng and Ghamou Achour, and all Mauritanians who continue to peacefully advocate for equality, justice, human dignity, and democratic governance.
We will continue to document these violations, amplify the voices of victims, and work with international partners to ensure that those responsible for human rights abuses are held accountable.
The Mauritanian Network for Human Rights in US (MNHRUS)
July 3, 2026
