Now Reading: Mali Junta Chief Approves Law Granting Unlimited Mandate
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Mali Junta Chief Approves Law Granting Unlimited Mandate
Mali’s junta leader, Colonel Assimi Goïta, has approved a controversial law granting him an unlimited mandate to govern, a decision formalized on July 9, 2025, following its passage by the country’s military-appointed legislative body.
The legislation, signed into effect after days of anticipation, removes previous transitional government term limits, allowing Goïta to remain in power indefinitely as the nation navigates its political transition since the 2020 coup. The move has drawn sharp criticism from both domestic opposition and the international community.
The law, enacted under a decree published in the official gazette, consolidates Goïta’s authority amid ongoing security challenges posed by Islamist insurgencies in the north and center of the country. Supporters argue it provides stability, pointing to recent military gains against jihadist groups, while critics, including civil society groups, label it a step toward dictatorship.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned the decision, threatening sanctions, and the United Nations has called for dialogue. Protests erupted in Bamako on July 10, with hundreds demanding a return to civilian rule, though security forces dispersed the crowds. The junta insists the mandate is temporary, pending a revised constitution, but no timeline has been provided.
