Mali’s ruling junta has named a military general as the new prime minister, continuing its leadership transition amidst global scrutiny.
On Thursday, Mali’s ruling junta appointed a new prime minister from its military ranks following the dismissal of the civilian prime minister, who had openly criticized the regime.
This appointment further strengthens the military’s grip on power in Mali, which has been under their control since they first seized power in a 2020 coup and subsequently conducted another coup in 2021.
On Wednesday, civilian Prime Minister Choguel Maïga was dismissed after criticizing the military junta for postponing the presidential election that was initially set for 2024. His removal was declared in a presidential decree by Mali’s military leader, Gen. Assimi Goïta, and broadcast on ORTM, the state television network.
On Thursday, Gen. Abdoulaye Maïga was appointed as his successor, stated Alfouseyni Diawara, the secretary general of the Malian presidency. It is noteworthy that there is no familial relation between the two individuals named Maïga.
With this appointment, all three branches of Mali’s transitional government—the presidency, the National Transitional Council (serving as the legislative body), and the prime minister’s office—are firmly placed under military control.
General Abdoulaye Maïga, aged 43, has served in several important positions under the junta, such as Minister of Territorial Administration, government spokesperson, and Deputy Prime Minister. Analysts suggest that his strong connection to Goïta was a crucial factor in his appointment.
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“The appointment of the new prime minister indicates that the military is consolidating its hold on power. General Maïga, perceived as particularly close to President Goïta, was chosen for his loyalty as the country gears up for potential elections next year,” stated Ulf Laessing, head of the Sahel program at Mali’s Konrad Adenauer Foundation.
Laessing stated, “Choguel prompted his removal by presenting himself as a potential candidate in the elections.”
Despite not being one of the five officers directly involved in the 2020 coup, Gen. Abdoulaye Maïga swiftly rose to prominence within the junta and became a key figure in the transitional government.
He is renowned for his passionate rhetoric, especially targeting France and MINUSMA, the former U.N. peacekeeping mission in Mali. At the U.N. General Assembly in September, he vehemently criticized Algerian diplomats who had accused the Malian army of killing civilians near the border with Algeria.
Since assuming control, Mali’s military leaders have strengthened their grip on the country by significantly limiting freedom of expression and suppressing dissent. Over a dozen politicians and activists have been arrested for voicing opposition to the junta.
