Mali - August 2025

On 1 August, authorities arrested former Prime Minister (PM) Moussa Mara on charges of ‘damaging the state’s credibility’ after he expressed solidarity with jailed critics; his trial is set for 29 September. Separately, on 12 August, former PM Choguel Maïga—dismissed in 2024 for criticizing the junta—was detained and charged with embezzlement. The charges stem from an auditor general’s report alleging serious financial irregularities during his time in office, though no trial date has been set. The near-simultaneous prosecution of two former heads of government has raised concerns among political analysts about judicial independence, particularly amid broader efforts by the junta to suppress dissent. 

Sources: International Crisis Group, British Broadcasting Corporation, Radio France Internationale, Barron’s, Jeune Afrique, African Press Agency

On 25 August, a Bamako court suspended the enforcement of a decree issued in May that dissolved all political parties and affiliated organizations, pending a constitutional review. The ruling temporarily restores a legal framework for political activity and refers the case to the Supreme Court, which may transfer it to the Constitutional Court. The May decree, justified by authorities as a reform to reduce party fragmentation, had sparked domestic and international criticism for curbing political freedoms. The suspension follows months of postponed hearings and comes amid growing concerns over the junta’s concentration of power.

Sources: African Press Agency, International Crisis Group, Barron’s, Jeune Afrique, International IDEA