Mali’s military-led government has formalized a five-year renewable term for junta leader Assimi Goita, the country’s council of ministers announced late Wednesday, effectively extending his rule well beyond earlier promised timelines for democratic transition.
Goita, 41, took power in coups in 2020 and 2021, pledging to restore order and hold free elections in the conflict-stricken West African nation. However, elections initially scheduled for February 2022 have been repeatedly delayed.
The new legislation, passed by the council of ministers, sets Goita’s official presidential term to begin in 2025. It follows recommendations made in April during a national dialogue, which also called for the dissolution of all political parties and tougher restrictions on forming new ones.
In May, demonstrators in Bamako protested the junta’s tightening grip and demanded a return to civilian rule. Shortly after, the government announced the formal dissolution of all political parties and banned political activity.
The move aligns Mali with fellow military-led neighbors Burkina Faso and Niger, both of which have adopted similar five-year timelines following coups. Burkina Faso extended its transition in 2023, allowing junta chief Ibrahim Traore to run in future elections. Niger’s military rulers have set a five-year transition plan beginning from their 2023 coup.
Mali’s prolonged military rule has drawn criticism from regional and international observers concerned about shrinking democratic space and continued instability.
