In the latest news shaking Mali, a military column made up of the Malian army and Russian proxies from the Wagner Group, known as Fama-Wagner, was hit hard by an attack by the rebels of the Permanent Strategic Framework (CSP). ). The clashes took place in the town of Tabankort, more than 200 kilometers north of Gao, and were described as “very intense fighting” by the rebels. Human and material losses as well as the capture of prisoners were reported. A Malian army plane was also reportedly shot down during this attack.
However, it should be noted that information about these clashes mainly comes from the CSP rebels, which can create a certain bias in media coverage and does not allow for an independent and comprehensive view of events.
Despite this attack, the Fama-Wagner column continued to advance towards Anefis, where new clashes were reported late in the afternoon. Some independent sources even claim that Malian soldiers entered Anefis, although this is disputed by the rebels. The Malian army did not wish to provide details on this subject.
These events raise many questions about the objectives of the Fama-Wagner column. Some wonder whether it is a question of attacking the town of Kidal, stronghold of the rebels, or of taking possession of the camps of Aguelhoc and Tessalit, which Minusma should leave soon. These two camps are claimed by the CSP under the ceasefire agreements and the 2015 peace agreement, but the Malian authorities believe that the Malian army has the right to settle anywhere on the national territory .
In this tense context, various political and civil actors in Mali remain strangely silent. However, there are two demonstrations planned for Friday October 13. The Military Defense Collective (CDM) is calling for a rally in support of the Malian army, while the CMAS is organizing a rally to demand a civilian political transition.
It is important to closely monitor developments in Mali, which remains a country plagued by instability and violence.