War in Mali: The return of tensions in the North
Mali is facing an upsurge in tensions in the north of the country, rekindling the specter of the war that shook the region in 2012. The coalition of armed groups in the north, known as CSP-PSD, has claimed responsibility for deadly attack against the armed forces in Bourem, a strategic town. This escalation of violence raises fears of a return to open conflict in the region.
Tensions between rebel groups and the Malian army had been brewing for several months. The Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), which is part of the CSP-PSD coalition, had already warned that it would act in self-defense against the military forces in power, which it accuses of violating the peace agreement signed in 2015. This agreement provided for the disarmament of rebel groups and their integration into the Malian administration, as well as political decentralization measures in the northern region.
However, the peace agreement was already weakened since the military came to power during the coups of 2020 and 2021. The transitional government had questioned certain articles of the agreement, which had aroused distrust former rebels. The government’s sovereignist policy, focused on territorial reconquest, has been seen as a threat by rebel groups, who believe that the government does not distinguish between them and jihadist groups.
This upsurge in violence also jeopardizes relations between Mali and France, which intervened militarily in 2013 to stop the advance of Islamist groups towards the capital Bamako. France and the UN peacekeeping force, Minusma, are seen as obstacles by rebel groups, further complicating the resolution of the conflict and the implementation of the peace agreement.
In this context, it is urgent that the Malian authorities and rebel groups engage in sincere and constructive talks in order to restore confidence and find lasting solutions for peace in the northern region. An inclusive political solution, which takes into account the aspirations of different stakeholders, is essential to avoid a further escalation of violence and enable lasting stability in Mali.
In conclusion, the return of tensions and violence in northern Mali is worrying and requires an urgent response. It is imperative that all stakeholders engage in sincere and constructive dialogue to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The international community must also support these efforts and help Mali overcome this crisis and establish lasting peace in the region.