Colonel Assimi Goita, the military leader of Mali, has dismissed Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga following the latter’s criticism of the junta’s lack of transparency regarding the return to democracy. Maiga’s comments on the postponed elections led to rising tensions that culminated in his sacking. His future political role remains uncertain amid mixed public reactions.
The military leader of Mali, Colonel Assimi Goita, has dismissed Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga and his government following Maiga’s public criticism regarding the junta’s lack of transparency concerning the promised return to democracy. This decision was announced in a decree broadcasted on state television, stating that the duties of the prime minister and his cabinet have been “terminated.” The dismissal comes as Mali continues to face significant instability due to ongoing jihadist violence and previous military coups in 2020 and 2021.
Relations between Col Goita and PM Maiga had been deteriorating for an extended period. During a speech to his supporters, Maiga highlighted the indefinite postponement of elections originally scheduled for March 2024, asserting that such a decision was made unilaterally without government discussion. He emphasized that the current lack of clarity regarding the transition may pose serious challenges for the nation. Calls for his resignation had begun prior to his termination, particularly from pro-military groups who viewed his comments as a betrayal.
Maiga had only recently endorsed a document supporting a previously arrested critic of the military leadership, suggesting a growing divide within the ruling class. Appointed Prime Minister in 2021 after a coup against transitional President Bah N’Daw, Maiga has a longstanding political background, having served in various ministerial roles and running for the presidency multiple times. His departure raises further uncertainty about the political transition and hints at a potential future role as an opposition leader against his former ally.
The reactions to his dismissal have been polarized, with supporters suggesting he could pursue the presidency and others branding him a traitor. Since seizing power amid widespread public dissent against former President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta, the junta has struggled to manage ongoing jihadist threats, leading to rising dissatisfaction among citizens regarding the transitional government.
In summary, the dismissal of Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga by Mali’s junta leader underscores the growing tensions within the military government amidst a backdrop of instability and delayed electoral promises. Maiga’s criticisms of the junta’s governance have culminated in his removal, raising questions about the future of Mali’s political transition and his potential role as an opposition figure. As the situation continues to evolve, public sentiment regarding the junta’s effectiveness remains critical.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
