Mali's current military leaders have accused former Prime Minister Maiga of theft and misappropriation of funds
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Form Alliance as Tensions Mount
In a significant move, the trio of countries Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have established the Alliance of Sahel States. This confederation aims to strengthen regional cooperation and address the shared challenges facing the region.
However, the political landscape in Mali remains complex and contentious. Five years after the 2020 coup, the country is still under military rule, with Assimi Goïta serving as president for a five-year term without democratic elections. The junta has dissolved all political parties, expelled French troops, and aligned more closely with Russia.
The security situation in Mali continues to be precarious, with increased extremist attacks and civilian casualties. The Malian army, alongside Russian allies, is tasked with fighting groups linked to Al-Qaeda, the Islamic State group, and local criminal gangs.
Mali's authorities have accused foreign states of attempting to destabilise the country, and have detained dozens of soldiers for allegedly seeking to overthrow the government. The official forces are regularly accused of abuses against civilians.
Recently, a French national was arrested in Mali on suspicion of working for the French intelligence services. This arrest comes amidst the junta's shift away from Western partners, notably France.
In July, the military-appointed legislative body granted Goita a five-year presidential mandate, renewable indefinitely without election. This decision was met with criticism, leading to the dismissal of Prime Minister Bah N'Daw in November 2024.
Bah N'Daw was jailed earlier this month, facing charges of money laundering, equating to many billions of CFA francs or several million euros. No trial date has been set for him. His dismissal followed criticism of the junta for postponing elections.
Another former prime minister, Moussa Mara, was also jailed this month. The current status of Mali, five years after the 2020 coup, is not provided in this article.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are all currently led by military juntas, and the three countries have accused the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) of being subservient to France. Alongside Burkina Faso and Niger, Mali quit Ecowas this year.
The junta in Mali has pivoted toward Russia as a new ally. Bah N'Daw's lawyer, Cheick Oumar Konare, has stated they believe in justice and are calm while awaiting the trial.
As the region grapples with instability and political upheaval, the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States offers a glimmer of hope for increased cooperation and a more secure future. However, the challenges facing Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger remain significant, and the path to democracy and stability is uncertain.
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