In a significant shift, the political movement backing Mali’s civilian Prime Minister Choguel Maiga has openly criticized the country’s military rulers for the first time.
The M5-RFP movement, previously seen as potentially cooperative with the junta, came out strongly against the colonels who seized power in a 2020 coup. The junta has repeatedly delayed promised elections and a transition to civilian rule.
The M5 specifically criticized proposals to promote the colonels leading the government and hold talks with armed extremists. These proposals emerged from recent consultations organized by the junta.
The M5 statement condemned these proposals as “tendentious” and disrespectful of public opinion. It also highlighted a broken “pact” between civilians and the military, accusing the junta of sidelining M5 representatives in the government.
While the M5 statement explicitly targets the military rulers, it remains unclear if Prime Minister Maiga himself endorses these criticisms. Appointed by the junta, Maiga has faced speculation of imminent replacement due to his perceived isolation and limited influence.
The military leadership has maintained a firm grip on power since the 2020 coup, followed by a second power grab in 2021. They have cracked down on dissent, targeting journalists, activists, and opposition figures.
The junta has provided no new timeline for handing over power to a civilian government. Prime Minister Maiga has justified the delay by citing the need for complete security stabilization before elections can be held.
This comes amidst heightened tensions. In April, the military suspended all political party activities, further tightening control after previously silencing critical voices.
Mali has been grappling with a complex political and security crisis since 2012. Extremist attacks, armed group violence, and a separatist movement in the north continue to plague the nation.
