Malian Prime Minister Sacked After Criticizing Junta; Cabinet Dismissed
Malian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga was abruptly dismissed from his position after publicly criticizing the ruling military junta. The announcement came via a decree read on national television by Alfouseyni Diawara, the secretary-general of the presidency.
The decree, signed by transitional president Colonel Assimi Goïta, comprised three articles and confirmed the removal of both Maïga and his entire cabinet.
Maïga, a civilian appointed by the military in 2021 following Mali’s second coup in a year, made headlines on November 16 during events commemorating the 2023 recapture of Kidal. Dressed in military attire despite his civilian status, he openly expressed frustration at being sidelined in key decisions, including discussions on the timeline for Mali’s political transition.
His remarks sparked widespread demonstrations in the capital, Bamako, and across several cities, with protesters demanding his resignation. Adding to the political turmoil, a faction within the military, the Collective of Military Defense (CDM), accused Maïga of “treason” and “denunciation,” escalating tensions between the civilian leadership and the junta.
Mali, grappling with political instability since the 2020 coup, has faced growing scrutiny over its slow return to democratic governance. Maïga’s dismissal underscores the challenges of navigating power dynamics in a country dominated by military influence.
As of now, no replacement for Maïga has been announced, leaving Mali’s political future uncertain amid ongoing regional and international pressure for reforms.
