Malians Demand Effective Return to Constitutional Order, Reject Dissolution of Political Parties

BAMAKO – Malians from across political and civil society sectors have issued a solemn call for a genuine return to constitutional order, rejecting both the possible dissolution of political parties and the extension of the military-led transition period. Gathering at the Press House in Bamako, politicians, civil society actors, journalists, intellectuals, trade unionists, and citizens reaffirmed their deep commitment to democratic and republican values.

Following a political demonstration by dozens of parties in front of Bamako’s Palace of Culture, another coalition of civil and political figures released a manifesto emphasizing their opposition to authoritarian tendencies. “We reject any form of authoritarian drift, power confiscation, or restrictions on freedoms,” the manifesto declared, urging respect for democracy, political pluralism, and fundamental rights. They also denounced recent proposals from military authorities, which include dissolving political parties and granting transitional president Assimi Goïta a five-year term without elections.

The group emphasized the urgency of organizing transparent and inclusive elections as a precondition for democratic legitimacy, asserting that stability in Mali rests on constitutional norms and civil liberties, including freedoms of expression, the press, peaceful protest, and association. They called on the public, especially the youth, to mobilize in defense of democracy and pluralism.

In recent weeks, Malian youth from both civil and political sectors have begun mobilizing nationwide against the junta’s proposals. Hamidou Doumbia, one of the signatories, stressed their commitment to political plurality and the democratic process. Demonstrations on Saturday in Bamako echoed these sentiments, with participants rejecting the continuation of military rule and any shift toward authoritarianism.

Political parties have collectively demanded that the transition end no later than December 31, 2025, and urged the immediate establishment of a clear timeline for returning to constitutional governance. Meanwhile, Mali’s National Human Rights Commission has voiced grave concern over rising threats to civil and political freedoms, reminding the ruling authorities of their duty to protect fundamental rights essential for democracy and the prevention of authoritarian drift.