Mali’s military leadership has intensified its crackdown on political dissent with the arrest of former Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga, the latest in a string of high-profile detentions targeting critics of the ruling junta. Maiga, who led the transitional government from 2021 until his abrupt removal in November 2023, was detained Tuesday on corruption charges linked to alleged misuse of public property. His arrest follows an earlier interrogation earlier this month, signaling the junta’s widening campaign to silence opposition.
The ex-premier had openly criticized the regime’s decision to indefinitely postpone elections, originally slated for early 2024, and continued vocalizing concerns even after his dismissal. His detention came just weeks after another former prime minister, Moussa Mara, was arrested on August 1 for allegedly “damaging the state’s credibility” by expressing solidarity with jailed critics of the junta on social media. Both cases underscore a systematic effort to stifle debate as the military consolidates power.
Mali has remained under authoritarian rule since Colonel Assimi Goïta first seized control in a 2020 coup, followed by a second power grab in 2021 that solidified his authority. Initially pledging a return to civilian governance by March 2024, the junta abruptly reversed course in June, extending Goïta’s presidency by five years and dissolving all political parties a month earlier. The moves drew widespread condemnation from regional bodies and foreign allies, with critics accusing the regime of eroding democratic norms.
The recent arrests align with a broader pattern of suppressing perceived threats to military dominance. Maiga’s removal as prime minister last year had already raised alarms, coming days after he condemned the election delay as a “betrayal” of public trust. Analysts suggest the corruption charges against him may reflect political retribution rather than genuine accountability, given the timing of his criticism. Similarly, Mara’s prosecution for a social media post highlights the narrowing space for free expression.
Mali’s political turmoil coincides with escalating security challenges, including a persistent Islamist insurgency and growing Russian military influence via the Wagner Group. The junta has framed its tightened grip as necessary for stability, but opponents argue such measures undermine long-term peace prospects. Regional organizations like ECOWAS, once vocal in demanding a swift transition, have struggled to counter the regime’s defiance, reflecting weakened leverage in a region strained by multiple coups.
As Maiga awaits trial, observers warn that Mali’s path to democracy grows increasingly distant. The targeting of former officials signals the junta’s resolve to eliminate rivals, while delayed elections and banned political activity leave citizens with dwindling avenues for representation. With international pressure yielding limited results, the country’s future hangs in a precarious balance between military control and unresolved demands for civilian governance.
