Mali’s National Transitional Council unanimously approved legislation on Thursday that grants General Assimi Goïta a fresh five-year presidential term. The move, backed by all 131 voting members, effectively cements his control over the country until at least 2030. Remarkably, the new law permits him to renew his term “as many times as necessary” until Mali is considered “pacified,” according to the text of the bill.
Twice-Seized Power and Deferred Democracy
Gen Goïta, 41, first seized power in August 2020 when he led a coup against President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta amid protests over corruption and escalating jihadist violence. Then, in May 2021, he ousted the interim government that was guiding a promised transition back to civilian rule. At that time, he pledged to hold democratic elections in 2022. However, that promise has repeatedly slipped on the calendar, as Goïta extends his rule.
Junta Justifies Move as “Popular Will”
Malick Diaw, head of the Transitional Council, described the new legislation as a “major step forward in the rebuilding of Mali,” adding that it reflects the “popular will.” Nevertheless, critics view the move as an alarming signal of deepening authoritarianism, especially following the junta’s ban on all political parties in May and an increasing crackdown on dissent.
Power Grab Risks Stifling Democratic Speech
The law grants Goïta, his ministers, and transitional parliamentarians the right to contest future elections. However, with parties banned and civil society under pressure, observers warn that genuine political competition may be strangled, making true democratic renewal nearly impossible. The extended military rule may dismantle the fragile foundations for pluralism and stifle dissenting voices.
Ongoing Security Crisis Undermines Justification
Goïta’s justification for extended rule hinges on Mali’s ongoing security crisis. However, violence continues—or even intensifies. Just days ago, jihadist groups linked to ISIS and al-Qaeda launched coordinated attacks on military posts across multiple towns, marking the third significant assault on Malian forces in a month. Thus, while the security emergency serves as the official rationale, it remains unresolved.
Shift in Alliances and Regional Isolation
Since seizing power, Goïta has pivoted away from traditional partners like France, even suspending ties with the former colonial power. He also withdrew Mali from ECOWAS in response to the bloc’s repeated demands for a quick transition to civilian rule. Now, under his leadership, Mali has joined Burkina Faso and Niger—also ruled by military juntas—in forging a new alliance independent from ECOWAS, aligning more closely with Russia.
Ongoing Turmoil Undercuts Promises of Stability
Despite assurances from the junta that its leadership would restore peace and order, violence has only increased in many regions since Goïta took control. This persistent unrest underscores the inadequacies of military governance and raises serious doubts about the proclaimed need for lengthened authoritarian rule.
Implications for Mali’s Democratic Future
By effectively removing presidential term limits, dissolving party politics, and consolidating authority within military circles, the transitional government appears determined to entrench its power indefinitely. Consequently, Mali risks becoming a long-term military regime rather than transitioning to civilian rule. Moreover, the trend could spill over regionally, as other military-run neighbors embrace similar tactics.
International Reaction and Outlook
Although local authorities claim the legislation reflects public support, backers of regional democracy have expressed alarm. Mali’s withdrawal from ECOWAS and realignment with Russia signal a broader regional rupture. Unless the international community responds, concerns about Mali descending into prolonged authoritarianism and regional instability will likely deepen.
Conclusion: Civilian Rule Deferred
With Goïta’s renewed and potentially endless mandate now law, expectations of a swift return to democracy have been dashed. Instead, Mali’s transitional government will continue under military control, as security challenges linger. Without political pluralism or signs of returning to electoral democracy, the country faces the real prospect of authoritarian entrenchment and growing international isolation.
