A national political conference in Mali has proposed that Assimi Goita, the leader of the military-led government, be appointed as president for a five-year term. This recommendation was made in a statement released on Tuesday after discussions held in the capital, Bamako.
The conference, which included political leaders and various stakeholders, also suggested significant reforms to the country’s political structure. Among the key proposals were the dissolution of all existing political parties and the introduction of stricter conditions for forming new political groups. These measures are intended to reshape Mali’s political landscape, which has been under military control since Goita’s ascent to power.
The recommendations are expected to be enacted in the coming days, signaling a new phase in Mali’s ongoing political transition.
Assimi Goita, who was a colonel when he led the coups that brought him to power in 2020 and 2021, has been in charge of the country since those events. Now 41, Goita was elevated to the rank of five-star general in October 2024, further solidifying his leadership. Since 2021, he has been serving as the “President of the Transition,” a role designed to oversee the country’s shift towards civilian rule.
Initially, Mali’s military leadership had committed to organizing elections by February 2022. However, the election timeline has been repeatedly delayed, and there is no clear date set for when they will take place. Despite these delays, the military government has emphasized its commitment to addressing the country’s ongoing security challenges, which have disrupted large parts of the nation.
The security situation in Mali remains precarious, with insurgent groups active in the country for over a decade, following the original outbreak of conflict tied to a Tuareg rebellion in the north. The government has made it a priority to restore peace and stability, although the continued violence and instability present ongoing challenges to Mali’s path toward recovery.
As these political reforms move forward, the future of Mali’s governance and its ability to secure lasting peace remain uncertain.