Anefis, a Malian town located in the Kidal region, is currently the scene of a tense situation between the Malian army and the rebels of the Permanent Strategic Framework (CSP). Since October 7, 2023, the Malian army has invested the city, seeking to regain control of the UN bases present in the region, bases that Minusma must soon leave as part of its withdrawal from the country.
However, the CSP rebels consider this action a violation of the ongoing peace agreement. They believe that Minusma, by postponing the deadline for its departure and allowing the entry of the Malian army, favors the Malian forces and their Russian auxiliaries. They accuse the UN mission of having a “hidden agenda” and question its neutrality.
However, Minusma spokesperson Fati Kaba maintains that the organization follows a precise timetable and is in contact with all parties involved. She affirms that the departure of Minusma from the Aguelhoc and Tessalit bases is planned for mid-October, and that the gradual disengagement will then continue. It denies any hidden agenda and insists that the mission’s sole objective is to withdraw from Mali in accordance with agreed plans.
The entry of Malian soldiers into Aguelhoc, Tessalit and Kidal, whose departure from Minusma is planned for mid-November, is seen by the Malian authorities as a legitimate reconquest of national territory. On the other hand, the armed groups of the CSP consider this a violation of the peace agreement, because they had controlled these regions since the 2014 ceasefire and the 2015 peace agreement. They believe that the occupation of these camps should have been the subject of prior discussions.
In this context, Minusma insists on the fact that the restitution of the bases is done in accordance with the principle of returning these rights to the Malian State. Once handed over, it is up to the Malian State to decide on their allocation. The UN mission therefore calls on the belligerents to allow its disengagement in complete safety, and it must leave the country by December 31 according to established plans.
This delicate situation highlights the persistent tensions in Mali and the challenge facing Minusma in its peacekeeping mission. The transition process and negotiations to achieve lasting stability remain major challenges. It remains to be seen how this situation will evolve and what the consequences will be for the region.
In the meantime, Minusma continues to work in difficult conditions to fulfill its mandate and promote peace in Mali. Remaining vigilant and supporting international peacekeeping efforts remains essential to achieving a lasting solution to this complex conflict.