The news in Mali is once again marked by fighting between the Malian army and the Permanent Strategic Framework (CSP), a coalition of armed groups signatories to the 2015 peace agreement. However, divisions are starting to appear within this coalition, highlighting the tensions that exist between the different groups involved.
For two weeks, the CSP has accused the Malian army of violating the peace agreement and has taken up arms again by attacking the country’s military bases. But this strategy is not supported by all members of the coalition. Indeed, the Movement for the Salvation of Azawad (MSA) decided to distance itself from the CSP by announcing its departure from the coalition.
The MSA, which is in the Ménaka region near Niger, has been particularly hard hit by attacks by the Islamic State group over the past year. Its priority today is to fight against the jihadist group, considering that it is the main enemy to fight. The MSA does not want to engage in a conflict which does not directly target the perpetrators of the massacres of civilian populations.
The Movement for the Salvation of Azawad, however, recalls its commitment to the 2015 peace agreement and chooses to remain allied with the Malian Armed Forces and the “loyalist” wing of Gatia, another armed group present in the regions. of Ménaka and Gao. For its part, a faction of Gatia, led by its historic secretary general, chose to support the CSP in this war, claiming that it is wanted by the junta in power in Bamako.
This fragmentation within the coalition of armed groups raises questions about the ability of these groups to remain united to achieve the goal of peace and stability in the region. The different priorities and interests of the groups involved may make it difficult to implement the 2015 peace agreement, thereby undermining efforts to stabilize the country.
It is essential to closely monitor developments in Mali and understand the reasons and implications of the divisions within the coalition. The peace and stability of the country are major challenges for the region and require joint coordination and commitment of all parties concerned.