Mali’s military junta, led by Colonel Assimi Goita, has announced the suspension of all political activities across the country, citing the need to maintain public order.
The decree comes after more than 80 political parties and civil groups called for presidential elections and an end to military rule.
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Since the consecutive coups in 2020 and 2021, Mali has been under junta rule, exacerbating the security, humanitarian, and political crises in the West African nation.
Despite previous promises of presidential elections and a transfer of power to civilians, the junta has not provided any clear indication of its intentions.
Government spokesman Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga defended the suspension of political activities, citing the “sterile discussions” during previous attempts at national dialogue and the increasing subversive acts by political parties.
Opposition voices have faced suppression under the junta’s rule.
The junta’s decision to ban a new opposition coalition in March further underscores its crackdown on dissent.
This coalition, critical of military rule, proposed a new approach to address Mali’s longstanding issues with armed groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.
Mali continues to grapple with instability and insecurity, with the junta’s actions raising concerns about the prospects for democratic governance and peace in the country.
