The government of Mali has been struggling to combat insecurity in the country for a very long time. However, to date, their efforts are futile as violence has extended up to the central part of the country.
Muslim extremists, who back then reigned the country triggered violence after the French usurped them through a military coup. It was then in 2013 that Malians elected President Keita. Ever since the Muslims have been forming terror groups who have promoted insecurity in the country. Many times, they rebel, kill, and burn homes. As a result, a lot of Malians have fled their homes while some succumbed.
Therefore, Malian republicans have been surviving in harsh environments. More so amid corona pandemic; they worry about food, shelter, water hence vulnerable to the virus.
President of Mali calls for negotiations
Due to the numerous political tensions in the country, President Keita invited his opposition to find a suitable way to calm the situation. During the dialogue, the President offered the opposition who lost their seats in the March elections senatorial seat. However, the opposition rejected his offer and demanded their original seats. They accused the constitutional court of electoral fraud.
“I would like once again to reassure our people of my willingness to continue the dialogue and reiterate my readiness to take all measures in my power to calm the situation,” he said in closing.
The opposition instead demanded him to dissolve the constitutional court. He promised to execute the demand. Demonstrators allege that the Constitutional court is responsible for tensions in the country after releasing false polls.
Friday protests by anti-government groups led to the death of 11 people. The masses were rioting in the streets, demanding president Keita’s resignation and dissolving of the national assembly. The protest sparked a clash between the policemen and demonstrators when it turned into violence.
The demonstrators marched in the country’s capital, as some barricaded roads with burning tires. Sources revealed that the 5th movement triggered the violence after misleading the people that President Keita was not concerned about them. The opposition endorsing the peoples’ rights in the country ignited the protests.
Dissolution of the constitutional court
President of Mali announced on 12th July that he had dissolved the constitutional court and was going to redo contested legislative elections. Following this decision, the opposition laid low demand for his resignation. This is especially since he has only three more years to his resignation. However, some elements are still dissatisfied with his leadership.
Despite President Keita meeting the people’s top demand, the protestors invaded a building belonging to his party. They ransacked and looted the offices, sparking more tensions.
Jonathan Goodluck named ECOWAS mediator
The regional Economic Community for the West African States appointed Goodluck, former Nigerian President, mediate in Mali’s political crisis. ECOWAS expects him to negotiate with the President, opposition, civil leaders, and the republicans.
Jean-Claude Kassi Brou, the chairman of ECOWAS, appointed Goodluck last month. Hopefully, they will arrive at a consensus.
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