MALI’S civilian Prime Minister, Choguel Kokalla Maiga, has made an unexpected call for the country’s military leaders to address the ongoing delay in the transition back to civilian rule. In a rare critique of the ruling junta, Maiga urged the military to honour its pledge to restore democracy and hold elections, a promise initially set for March 2024.
The West African nation has been under military control since a series of coups in 2020 and 2021. The junta had committed to holding elections and handing over power by March 2024, but the vote was postponed indefinitely without consultation with the civilian government. Maiga, speaking at an M5-RFP movement event, highlighted the lack of debate on the issue within the government, expressing concerns about the uncertainty surrounding the transition.
‘The Transition was supposed to end on March 26, 2024. But it was postponed indefinitely, unilaterally, without debate within the government,’ Maiga said in his address, published on Facebook. ‘The prime minister is left to rely on rumours and unclear interpretations of the actions of the Minister of Territorial Administration.’
Maiga warned of the growing risks of instability, cautioning that the prolonged transition could lead to confusion and possible setbacks in the country’s political progress. He emphasised the need for unity and respect for political authorities, praising the armed forces for their role in ensuring the country’s stability.
Despite the mounting criticism, the M5-RFP movement has also openly criticised Mali’s military leaders for failing to meet deadlines to return power to civilians. This has led to increasing tensions, with several individuals, including allies of Maiga, facing legal repercussions for their outspoken views.
In May, the movement issued a formal statement denouncing the junta’s actions, while a prominent supporter of the group was sentenced to a year in prison in July. Though released in September after his sentence was commuted, the move marked a significant moment of dissent against the junta. In June, eleven individuals were arrested on charges of conspiring against the authorities, further demonstrating the growing divide between the ruling junta and civilian factions.
Mali’s political and security situation has been increasingly fragile since 2012, marked by jihadi insurgencies, armed group attacks, and separatist movements in the northern regions of the country. As the junta continues to resist pressure for civilian rule, the country’s future remains uncertain, with critics warning of further risks to its stability and democracy.
