The African Union (AU) has urged Mali to provide a clear transition roadmap following the coup, emphasizing the importance of steering the country back towards democratic governance.
Mali’s military junta on Thursday suspended all political activities, citing the need to maintain public order.
Malian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga, appointed by the military following the ousting of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in August 2020, stated that elections would be deferred until the country stabilizes amidst a serious security crisis.
Criticism has mounted against Mali’s leadership both domestically and internationally, particularly since the military failed to uphold its commitments to hold presidential elections in February and relinquish power thereafter.
In a further crackdown on dissent, the junta prohibited media coverage of political parties, exacerbating tensions within the nation.
AU Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat, expressing deep concern over these developments, urged Malian authorities to reconsider their decision and work towards devising a roadmap to complete the ongoing transition process.
He emphasized the importance of an inclusive transition to restore constitutional order, fostering peace, stability, and development in Mali.
Recall that the AU suspended Mali in June 2021, underscoring its commitment to address the country’s political challenges.
Mali has grappled with escalating jihadist activity and a multifaceted crisis encompassing security, political, and humanitarian dimensions since 2012. In response, the junta has reoriented its strategic alliances, distancing itself from France and forging closer ties with Russia.
Amid pressure from the regional bloc ECOWAS, the junta pledged to conduct elections and return power to civilians by March 26 but failed to do so. The United Nations and the US State Department have voiced alarm at the suspension of political activities, calling for elections.
Also, Mali terminated the UN stabilisation mission MINUSMA last year and ended a 2015 peace agreement with separatist groups in the north in January.
Burkina Faso and Niger, neighboring Sahel states, also experienced military coups in 2022 and 2023 respectively, with all three countries pledging to form their own Sahel alliance and depart from ECOWAS.
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