Assimi Goita, the military leader of Mali, currently enjoys a renewable five-year long presidential term. This was only possible due to a rare unanimous agreement from the National Transitional Council (NTC). This important ruling allows Goita to remain in control of the country until at least 2030. This is despite the fact that he had previously pledged to restore civilian rule. With 131 members present, the NTC approved the bill with a bipartisan supermajority. This decision clears the way for Goita to strengthen his control of the leadership, having formally taken on the role of transitional president in June 2021.
Goita first came to power in a coup that ousted long-ruling President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta in August 2020. His presidency incited fears for the state of democracy in the country. At least he’s consistent, as is Mali’s commitment to combating “jihadist” violence. This lingering catastrophe has plagued the region for decades and he is committed to helping fix it. His government argues that this longer mandate is necessary to provide stability to a restive country.
Legislative Backing for Extended Leadership
The NTC’s decision to endorse Goita’s extended term represents a key turning point in Mali’s landscape of power. The bill makes permanent, renewable five-year transition period the administration insists on.
“as many times as necessary, until the pacification of the country, from the promulgation of this charter” – AFP
Malick Diaw, a member of NTC, was hopeful about this decision.
“This is a major step forward in the rebuilding of Mali” – Malick Diaw
The NTC’s backing emboldens Goita and his junta’s hold on power. By the time of our last discussion in May 2023, they had completely eliminated all political parties and other organizations. Additionally, at that time a prohibition on political convenings was in effect, an even stricter measure to stifle dissent.
Regional Implications and Alliances
In recent months, Goita’s regime has withdrawn Mali from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This decision foreshadows an alarming new reality: mounting tensions with regional powers. Following Mali’s lead, neighboring Burkina Faso and Niger have exited ECOWAS.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger recently merged military operations to increase security and counteractions against citizens in the region. Jointly, they have formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). This new confederation announced plans to create a joint force of 5,000 troops for coordinated military operations against ongoing threats.
A Commitment to Security
Goita’s administration is already under critical eyes for its sincerity to actually return to civilian governance. It has stayed true to its guiding principle of countering violent extremism. The military government has consistently stressed that stability and security remain the most important priorities, particularly given ongoing jihadist threats.
