Mali junta sacks civilian PM
Mali’s political landscape faces further uncertainty as the Mali Junta Sacks Civilian PM, Choguel Kokalla Maïga, and dissolves the cabinet on November 20. This decision came after Maïga’s rare public criticism of the military rulers, which amplifies his frustrations over being excluded from key decisions during the country’s turbulent transition period.
Maïga, who was appointed by the military in 2021 following Mali’s second coup in less than a year, had been seen as the civilian face of the junta’s leadership. His dismissal underscores the deepening divisions within the government as Mali Junta Sacks Civilian PM amid ongoing challenges like jihadist violence, separatist movements, and the delayed promises for a return to civilian rule. 
Maïga’s Criticism Leads to Backlash, Resulting in Mali Junta Sacking the PM
In a public speech on November 16 during events commemorating the recapture of Kidal, Maïga voiced his discontent with the junta’s approach to governance. Dressed in military attire despite being a civilian, he criticized the lack of clarity around the timeline for transitioning power back to civilian authorities.
His remarks drew sharp rebukes from the Collective for the Defense of the Military (CDM), a powerful pro-junta faction, which accused him of treason and called for his resignation within 72 hours. Demonstrations erupted across Mali, with protesters in several cities demanding Maïga step down.
This growing discontent culminated in Goïta’s decree on Wednesday, terminating Maïga’s tenure alongside the rest of the government.
Delayed Elections Add to Mali’s Political Turmoil
The junta had initially promised to hold elections and restore civilian governance by March 2024. However, repeated delays have steadily eroded public trust in their intentions, with elections now postponed indefinitely. As a result, the country’s political future remains uncertain, especially after the Mali Junta Sacks Civilian PM.
Maïga, a seasoned politician and former presidential candidate, played a pivotal role in reshaping Mali’s foreign policy. He significantly contributed to the country’s shift away from its former colonial ruler, France, and toward stronger ties with Russia.
He also advocated for Russian paramilitary forces as an alternative to the French anti-jihadist operations, which the junta accused of abandoning Mali.
Despite these contributions, Maïga’s relationship with the military leadership became increasingly strained. Over time, he distanced himself from their policies, culminating in his public condemnation of the lack of progress in the transition to civilian rule.
This likely sealed his fate and led to the Mali Junta Sacks Civilian PM, marking a significant turning point in the country’s political trajectory.
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