United Nations experts have strongly urged Mali’s transitional government to immediately lift its suspension of political party activities, calling the move a violation of fundamental human rights.
The appeal follows the military-led government’s decision on Wednesday to halt all political party operations “until further notice,” citing public order concerns amid growing opposition protests.
In a joint statement, three independent UN experts condemned the suspension, warning that it restricts Malian citizens’ right to political participation, freedom of expression, and peaceful assembly. “This decree must be immediately repealed,” they declared.
The experts also criticized a newly adopted bill that repeals protections for political activity and imposes steep financial barriers on party registration and candidacies. They warned the legislation could severely limit political participation to only the wealthiest groups, undermining democracy and violating Mali’s international human rights obligations.
Rejecting the junta’s justification that the measures reflect outcomes of national dialogue, the UN experts stressed that “no genuine consultation is possible” in an environment where dissent is suppressed and journalists face intimidation.
As opposition groups prepare for more protests, the experts emphasized that the right to peaceful assembly is essential to a healthy political society. They called on Mali’s transitional authorities, led by Assimi Goita, to respect civil liberties and refrain from further repression.