Mali’s ruling military leader, Assimi Goita, has secured the support of political leaders to be declared the country’s president for the next five years.
A national conference in Mali recommended naming Goita president with a five-year mandate, effectively solidifying his grip on power.
Goita, 41, has led coups in 2020 and 2021 and has served as interim president since 2021. His ascension to the presidency was marked by promises to hold elections, which have been met with skepticism.
The national conference’s recommendation also proposed the dissolution of existing political parties and the establishment of new ones, raising concerns about political freedom.
Opposition leader Mohamed Salia Touré criticized the move, stating that suppressing the multi-party system would be a “historic error”. The conference also recommended suspending elections until peace is restored, citing security challenges due to jihadist activities linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda ¹ ².
Goita has formed an alliance with coup leaders in Burkina Faso and Niger, pivoting towards Russia after cutting ties with France. Mali has withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) over demands to restore democratic rule.
In response to international pressure, Goita has reassured the international community that Mali will honour all its commitments. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan is set to continue mediation on behalf of ECOWAS.