POLITICAL groups in Mali have expressed their vehement disapproval following the ruling junta’s recent announcement to indefinitely postpone the presidential election, a pivotal step in the transition back to civilian governance.
The junta declared the delay to the presidential election, originally scheduled for February, citing various reasons for the decisio
n. While new dates for the voting process are yet to be confirmed, a government spokesperson stated that the postponement is linked to the adoption of a new constitution this year and a review of electoral lists. Additionally, a dispute involving French company Idemia, which plays a role in the census process, was mentioned as a contributing factor.
Among the voices denouncing the postponement is the M5-RFP opposition coalition, which emphasises the junta’s obligation to honour its co
mmitments. Since the announcement on Monday, several other political parties have also voiced their objections to the delay, which further complicates the situation for the West African regional bloc ECOWAS.
ECOWAS, comprising 15 member states, has been consistently pressuring the junta to restore civilian rule in Mali since 2020. The regional organisation maintains a ‘zero tolerance’ stance toward coups d’état. However, the recent announcement adds to a series of setbacks, including coup attempts in Mali’s neighbouring countries such as Burkina Faso and Niger, as well as Guinea.
The junta’s decision to postpone the presidential election represents yet another deviation from the promised timeline for the return to civilian governance. Previously, the military, responsible for consecutive coups in 2020 and 2021, had committed to holding legislative elections in February 2022.
ECOWAS has not issued an official response to the latest development, but the postponement underscores the ongoing challenges in facilitating the transition of power from the military junta to elected civilian leaders.
