Mali’s Prime Minister, Choguel Maiga, has been dismissed by the country’s ruling military junta.
State broadcaster ORTM announced the decision on Wednesday, marking the end of Maiga’s tenure as a key civilian leader in the transitional government.
Maiga had recently intensified his criticism of the junta, accusing it of failing to honor its promise to hold elections within the agreed 24-month transition period.
The junta, which came to power through coups in 2020 and 2021, had pledged to organize elections in February 2024.
However, the military rulers postponed the vote indefinitely, citing technical reasons.
Maiga expressed shock over his dismissal, saying he learned about it through the media.
“It’s all happening in total secrecy, without the prime minister’s knowledge,” he told reporters on Saturday.
Mounting Tensions Over Election Delays
The election delays have drawn widespread criticism from both local and international actors.
Maiga, who once staunchly defended the junta, became increasingly vocal against their actions, accusing them of sidelining his office in critical decisions.
Observers say his dismissal reflects deepening tensions within Mali’s transitional government.
Maiga also revealed his frustration with the lack of consultation on key issues, including the decision to postpone the elections.
The delays have strained relations between Mali and its West African neighbors, who are pushing for a swift return to civilian rule.
Maiga’s Role in Mali’s Political Landscape
Before becoming Prime Minister, Maiga was a prominent figure in Mali’s opposition.
He led the M5-RFP coalition that spearheaded mass protests against former President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.
The protests culminated in Keita’s ousting during the first military coup in 2020.
Maiga initially aligned himself with the junta, defending their governance even as they faced criticism for collaborating with Russian mercenaries and delaying the transition to democracy.
However, his recent remarks exposed a growing rift between him and the military rulers.
Promises Unfulfilled
The junta’s failure to meet its own timeline for elections has further fueled discontent among Malians.
Many citizens and political groups are accusing the military rulers of clinging to power under the guise of “technical reasons.”
Analysts argue that the dismissal of Maiga sends a strong message to dissenters within the transitional government.
A new prime minister will now need to form a government in consultation with interim President Assimi Goïta, who leads the junta.
International Concerns
The prolonged transition has drawn criticism from West African neighbors and international allies, who are urging Mali to honor its commitments to democracy.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has repeatedly pressured the junta to adhere to its agreed timeline.
The presence of Russian mercenaries in Mali has also raised concerns among Western nations, who accuse the junta of undermining regional stability.
Maiga had previously defended Mali’s military cooperation with Russia but softened his stance as the junta’s actions became increasingly opaque.
A Troubled Transition
Maiga’s dismissal is the latest twist in Mali’s troubled transition to democracy.
While the military initially promised to restore civilian rule, critics now question their commitment.
Political observers believe the ousting of a civilian leader like Maiga highlights the junta’s tightening grip on power.
With no clear timeline for elections, Mali’s political future remains uncertain.
Maiga’s parting words reflect the growing frustration among Malians.
“The resources of this country belong to its people, not a select few operating in secrecy,” he said.
