Shedding light on the situation in Kidal, Mali: a symbolic and strategic struggle
Kidal, a small town in northern Mali, has long been the center of the independence rebellions that have rocked the country. Controlling this region has both strategic and symbolic importance for the Malian government.
Today, the Malian army claims to have taken a position in Kidal, thus marking its intention to regain control of this symbolic city. However, the situation is complex, because Kidal is mainly populated by Tuaregs, a community which has long claimed its autonomy.
Kidal’s population has recently increased with the arrival of thousands of internally displaced people fleeing violence caused by the Islamic State and Malian armed forces in the region. However, recent fighting and bombings have forced many residents to flee the city, leaving Kidal almost deserted.
The immediate objective of the Malian army is to retake the camp of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). This peacekeeping mission recently left Kidal as part of its withdrawal from the country. For the Malian government, it is essential that the national army regains control of these camps within the framework of its sovereignty. However, pro-independence rebels oppose it, saying it goes against the 2015 peace agreement which provided for the establishment of a national army integrating fighters from armed groups.
Beyond the immediate issues, the capture of Kidal represents a strong symbol. The city is considered the cradle of independence rebellions in Mali, having experienced several conflicts since 1916. Although the Permanent Strategic Framework (CSP) rebels no longer openly demand independence, many residents see the resumption of war as a opportunity to assert their demands.
The situation is complex and a political settlement seems unlikely immediately. Both camps are determined to fight, convinced of their legitimacy. A peaceful solution can probably only be envisaged when the balance of power is established, through arms.
In conclusion, the situation in Kidal, Mali, is both a strategic issue for national sovereignty and an important symbol of the independence rebellions. The recapture of the city by the Malian army is a complex challenge, with profound political and social implications. Only time will tell us how this situation will evolve and whether a compromise can be found to preserve peace and stability in the region.