** Reflections on the political situation in Mali: between the dissolution of parties and uncertain transition **
On May 1, 2024, a hundred Malian political parties gathered in Bamako in a situation marked by growing tensions and concerns about the democratic future of the country. This meeting, which precedes a joint declaration scheduled for May 3, is part of the context of the recent decisions of the transitional authorities led by General Assimi Goïta. These decisions, which include the dissolution of existing political parties, arouse lively debates and raise essential questions about the direction that Mali will take.
The planned dissolution of political parties is a radical measure which could profoundly transform the Malian political landscape. Party leaders denounce a maneuver which they deem illegal and anti -democratic. Indeed, the adoption of the bill aimed at repealing the charter of political parties was perceived as a direct attack on plurality which traditionally characterizes Malian political life. The anger expressed on this subject is inseparable from a broader feeling of mistrust towards the militar authorities, considered by some as a threat to the democracy and sovereignty of the people.
Critics are also focusing on the consultation process preceding these decisions. Representatives of the living forces have been accused of lacking authenticity and impartiality. The nucleations of these “consultations” were perceived as biased, in particular because of the participation of administrative civil servants, whose legitimacy in representing the voice of citizens has been widely disputed. This situation raises questions about how political decisions are taken in a context where democratic legitimacy seems compromised.
In this context, the absence of scheduled elections and the extension of the transition beyond 2025 are major concerns. Many political leaders insist on the need for a clear time frame for the restitution of power to civilians and the organization of free and fair elections. The argument revolves around a request for pacification of the country, but also questions what this pacification implies and at what price it is to be obtained. Can the promise of security really justify the suspension of democratic rights? How to guarantee that this balance between security and democracy does not change towards sustainable authoritarianism?
As an example, we could mention the contexts of other countries that have experienced similar situations. Transition processes, when they are poorly managed, can often lead to democratic regression. However, history has also shown that peaceful and inclusive ways to democracy remain possible. The challenges of Mali are not isolated; They are at the crossroads of African historical paths, where hopes of democracy often come up against the realities of instability.
Political leaders strive to remain united in the face of this crisis, and their determination to defend democratic principles is commendable. Despite the absence of calls for demonstrations for the moment, it is plausible that as the situation evolves, other forms of action are taking shape on the horizon. The strategy of keeping dialogue open while exploring legal paths to challenge state decisions could be a constructive approach.
This context recalls that the path to a real democracy requires a collective effort and a period of in -depth discussion. The mobilization of political parties to defend democracy and to oppose decisions which they deem harmful is a legitimate response to a situation which challenges not only Mali, but also the international community. It is essential that the voice of the Malians is heard and that the decisions which concern them are made in respect of the democratic principles.
Thus, Mali is at a delicate crossroads. While tensions are rising, the search for a national consensus and a stable political framework is more relevant than ever. The questions raised by this crisis are not only political; They also affect the deep aspirations of an entire nation that seeks to trace its future. How will Mali succeed in combining security requirements with those of democracy? This is undoubtedly the fundamental question that all actors, political and civilians will have to think about the future, in a quest for balance and lasting peace.