Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga is under mounting pressure in Mali as a faction of the military, known as the Collective of Military Defense (CDM), accuses him of “treason” and “denunciation” for his recent criticism of the ruling junta. The CDM, closely aligned with junta leader Assimi Goïta, has issued an ultimatum demanding Maïga’s resignation within 72 hours, citing what they describe as acts of “high treason.”
This development marks a significant escalation, as the CDM’s demands have previously carried considerable weight with the military leadership. Maïga’s precarious position comes after his public condemnation of the junta on November 16 during a ceremony commemorating the Malian Armed Forces’ recapture of Kidal.
In a striking move, Maïga, a civilian, appeared in military attire during the event and criticized the junta for sidelining him in key political decisions. He expressed frustration over his exclusion from deliberations on the timeline for Mali’s political transition and voiced concerns about the junta’s unilateral decision to extend the transition period beyond its original deadline of March 26, 2024.
While commending the armed forces for their achievements and celebrating what he termed the “liberation of Kidal,” Maïga sharply criticized the junta’s governance. He warned of growing political instability, emphasizing the urgent need for transparency and a clearer direction for the transition process.
Maïga’s remarks have further isolated him within Mali’s political landscape, where his influence over the military appears to have waned. His criticism comes amid longstanding speculation about his potential dismissal, fueled by his support for a critical statement against the junta in June.
Appointed by the military in 2021 after Mali experienced two coups in a single year, Maïga initially enjoyed a cooperative relationship with the ruling generals. However, his recent defiance has exposed growing rifts within the government.
As the 72-hour ultimatum from the CDM looms, the demand for Maïga’s resignation raises questions about the stability of Mali’s fragile political transition. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for the country’s efforts to navigate its ongoing governance challenges.