Tragic news in Mali: the death of prefect Drissa Sanogo, held hostage since May 2020 by the Support Group for Islam and Muslims, linked to al-Qaeda. This sad news was announced by the jihadist group last Friday.
According to the Jnim press release, Drissa Sanogo died following a long illness. A relative of the prefect confirms this information, expressing both sadness and disappointment regarding the efforts made to obtain his release. It has been more than three years since Drissa Sanogo was detained, leaving his loved ones waiting for his return.
This disappearance is added to a list that is already too long. Although the Malian authorities have managed to obtain some releases in recent months, many Western and Malian hostages remain in the hands of the Jnim, mainly civil servants, soldiers and teachers. The recent release of hostages such as American Jeff Woodke, Frenchman Olivier Dubois and Australian Kenneth Elliott is encouraging, but much remains to be done.
Faced with this alarming situation, it is imperative that the Malian transitional authorities redouble their efforts to ensure the safety of all citizens and protect civil servants who are on the front line in risk areas. International cooperation is also essential to fight against these terrorist groups and put an end to this spiral of violence.
Finally, it is important to remember that behind each hostage, there is a family and loved ones who await their return with anxiety and hope. The death of Prefect Drissa Sanogo is a sad reality which reminds us of the need to continue working together to put an end to these inhumane situations.
In this context, it is essential that the media continue to cover these events in order to raise public awareness and encourage concerted action to combat terrorism and protect fundamental human rights.
Current events in Mali must not be relegated to the background. Every life lost, every hostage held captive is a tragedy that calls for an immediate and effective response. It is time to end this cycle of violence and work to bring peace and stability to this troubled region.