Mali’s transitional government has announced the dismissal of Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga following his public criticism of the military-led junta. The decision was made public on Wednesday, November 20, via a decree read on national television by Alfouseyni Diawara, secretary-general of the presidency. The decree, signed by transitional president Colonel Assimi Goïta, also confirmed the dissolution of Maïga’s cabinet.
Maïga, a civilian leader appointed by the junta in 2021 after Mali’s second coup in a year, had recently criticized the military’s dominance in the country’s political transition. His remarks came on November 16 during events commemorating the recapture of Kidal. Donning military attire, Maïga expressed frustration at being sidelined from key decisions, including those concerning the timeline for restoring democratic governance.
His comments reportedly struck a nerve within the military establishment. The Collective of Military Defense (CDM), a faction within the armed forces, accused Maïga of “treason” and “denunciation,” further escalating tensions.
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Maïga’s criticism sparked demonstrations across the capital and several other cities, with protesters demanding his resignation. While some supported his call for more inclusive decision-making, others viewed his remarks as undermining the authority of the junta, which has been steering the country through a period of significant political and security challenges.
Mali’s Transition in Turmoil
Mali has been navigating a precarious political landscape since its first military coup in 2020, followed by another in 2021. The transitional government, led by Colonel Assimi Goïta, has faced mounting pressure domestically and internationally to return the country to civilian rule.
Maïga’s dismissal raises further questions about the junta’s commitment to an inclusive transition process. It also underscores the deepening rift between civilian and military leaders within Mali’s transitional government, potentially complicating the country’s path toward stability and democratic governance.
The junta has yet to announce Maïga’s replacement or provide a timeline for appointing a new cabinet. Meanwhile, the political and social fallout from this decision continues to unfold, further testing Mali’s fragile transition.
