Mali’s Military Government Suspends Political Parties Indefinitely

Decree signed by General Assimi Goita cites “public order” concerns following pro-democracy protests.

Government Cites Public Order Concerns

Mali’s military government has suspended all political party activities “until further notice,” according to a decree signed by transitional President General Assimi Goita. The order, issued on Wednesday, applies to all “associations of a political character” and was justified by “reasons of public order,” state media reported.

Video credit to: Plus TV Africa

Pro-Democracy Protests Prompt Crackdown

The suspension comes just days after a rare pro-democracy rally in the capital, Bamako, where hundreds protested against the military government’s recent repeal of laws governing political parties. Legal experts had interpreted the repeal as a step toward dissolving political organizations entirely.

In response to the government’s actions, a coalition of dozens of parties formed to demand an end to military rule by December 31 and a return to constitutional order. Another protest had been planned for later this week before the suspension was announced.

Opposition Leader Vows to Continue Fight

Cheick Oumar Doumbia, a leader of the weekend demonstration, told The Associated Press he was “not surprised” by the decree. “I expected this because this is their way of preventing us from carrying out our activities,” he said. “But we will continue to defend democracy in Mali. We are a people committed to democracy.”

Background of Military Rule

General Goita first seized power in coups in 2020 and 2021. Last week, a national political conference recommended he serve as president for a renewable five-year term. This marks the second time authorities have restricted political activities—in 2024, the government imposed a three-month suspension on party operations.

Source: Al Jazeera