Mali’s military government, led by Colonel Assimi Goita, announced the dissolution of all political parties on Tuesday, May 7, 2025. This decision comes on the heels of recent anti-government protests and escalating demands for the restoration of democratic governance.
The announcement was made during a televised address to the nation, which followed a series of opposition arrests and a sweeping decree that suspended all political activities across the country. As placards proclaiming “Down with dictatorship, long live democracy” echoed through the streets during demonstrations on May 3 and 4, it became evident that public sentiment was reaching a boiling point—prompting the regime’s swift and harsh reaction.
This crackdown follows a contentious national dialogue held in April, where proposals to extend Goita’s rule until 2030 ignited outrage among civil society and human rights groups. Critics denounced the plan as a blatant attempt to entrench military rule while disregarding the calls for democratic reform.
Reports have surfaced of alarming disappearances among opposition figures, intensifying fears among political activists. Human Rights Watch confirmed that on Thursday, masked gunmen arrested Abba Alhassane, the Secretary-General of the opposition party CODEM. On the same day, Yelema party leader El Bachir Thiam was allegedly abducted in Kati, and another CODEM youth leader, Abdoul Karim Traore, has gone missing.
“We fear he has been taken too,” lamented a party member who chose to remain anonymous when speaking to Reuters.
Goita initially rose to power in a military coup in 2020, citing the previous civilian government’s inability to combat escalating jihadist violence from groups linked to ISIL and al-Qaeda. The coup was preceded by a severe crackdown on anti-government protesters that resulted in at least 14 fatalities. Since assuming control, the military regime has implemented stringent measures to solidify its rule, effectively dismantling many democratic safeguards. Rights groups have accused the government, along with its allies—including Russian Wagner forces—of widespread human rights abuses.
As Mali finds itself mired in turmoil and uncertainty, the dissolution of political parties marks a significant step backward for the country’s hopes of democratic restoration. The cries for change from a courageous citizenry continue to grow louder, yet the military government’s firm grip on power threatens to overshadow these vital demands for justice and democracy.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
