### Mali: the detention of activists contested in the prism of justice and human rights
The political situation in Mali, marked by chronic instability and social tensions, raises increasing concerns concerning the fundamental rights of individuals and the legitimacy of legal proceedings. The recent refusal of provisional liberation of three activists of the Peace Movement in Mali (MPPM) and the Sadi opposition party illustrates the extent of the socio-political issues that cross the country.
#### Context of the case
Moulaye Baba Haïdara, Mahamoud Mohamed Mangane and Amadou Togola, arrested for almost two years, are accused of “conspiracy” and “attack on state security”. According to their defense, these accusations are based on confessions they have not made, namely to have planned demonstrations to overthrow the transitional authorities. This aspect of the case raises suspicions as to the veracity of the testimonies and the evidence presented. Indeed, relatives of the accused expressed their disagreement, calling the accusations of “monstrous montage” and pointing inconsistencies in the file.
According to sources cited by Fatshimetrics, these men have undergone inhuman treatments during their detention, in particular acts of torture. The allegations of torture are particularly worrying because they question not only the legitimacy of supposed confessions, but also compliance with international standards in terms of human rights. The United Nations experts, who call for their immediate release, evoke an urgent need for medical care and a need to impartially examine judicial files.
#### Implications for freedom of expression
The detention of these activists is part of a broader context of erosion of freedom of expression and repression of dissident voices in Mali. The arrest of activists occurs after they denounced abuses committed by the Malian army. This dynamic raises central questions about the ability of citizens to express themselves freely on sensitive subjects, especially in times of political crisis.
The way in which the judicial bodies and the Malian authorities manage these cases could be interpreted as a clear signal to political actors and to civil society: any critical voice risks being stifled. Consequently, this could cause a climate of fear that would push more votes to silence, thus limiting public debate, essential to democracy.
#### towards a necessary reflection
In this context, several questions deserve to be asked. How can the Malian state guarantee the fundamental rights of its citizens while responding to the security challenges that it is faced with? Are there sufficiently robust mechanisms to ensure the transparency and impartiality of justice, especially in cases with a strong political issue? Do recent liberation decisions by the African Court of Human Rights illustrate a desire for rupture with disputed legal practices?
These questions highlight the need for in -depth reflection on the country’s judicial institutions. Faced with current challenges, it could be appropriate to work to strengthen the capacity of judges and lawyers to defend the rights of all citizens, whatever the political context.
#### Conclusion
The situation in Mali, as shown in the affair of the three activists, is emblematic of the challenges represented by the quest for balance between security, justice and respect for human rights. In an environment where confidence in judicial institutions can vacillate, it is crucial to find ways that promote constructive dialogue, guaranteeing both security and preservation of human dignity. Only such an approach will make it possible to build a more serene future for the country, where each actor can participate in public life without fear of reprisals.