The military junta in Mali on Wednesday took a decisive step by issuing a decree that ordered the suspension of all political activities.
The government spokesman, Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga, announced: “Until further notice, for reasons of public order, the activities of political parties and the activities of a political character of associations are suspended across the whole country.”
This decree was a response to the actions of more than 80 political parties and civil groups that, on April 1, issued joint statements demanding the conduct of presidential elections “as soon as possible” and calling for an end to military rule.
Colonel Maiga cited “sterile discussions” during a national dialogue attempt earlier in the year as the justification for the suspension. He also mentioned that “subversive acts by political parties are multiplying,” which necessitated the suspension to ensure a conducive environment for dialogue without “cacophony and confusion.”
Furthermore, the junta had previously banned the activities of a new opposition coalition in March, pointing to “threats of disturbance to public order.”
This group had been vocally critical of the military rule and had suggested “a new way” for the Malian people, who have been suffering from the devastation caused by groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State since 2012.
The United Nations reported that at least four organizations in Mali, including those related to good governance, elections, and the opposition, had been dissolved since December 2023.
Since taking power, the junta has also shifted Mali’s international alliances, moving away from traditional partners like the European Union and France, and instead has sought closer relations with Russia.
The West African nation has been experiencing a tumultuous period marked by political instability and security challenges. The country has been under the control of a military junta following coups in 2020 and 2021.
This period has been characterized by a deteriorating security situation and a deepening humanitarian and political crisis.
The junta, led by Colonel Assimi Goita, initially promised to hold presidential elections in February 2022 and to transfer power back to civilians by March 26. However, these elections were indefinitely postponed, leading to heightened tensions and uncertainty about the country’s political future.
