Bamako – Colonel Assimi Goita, the head of Mali’s military junta, has announced an extension of the country’s transitional period, effectively prolonging his rule until 2030. The decision, which comes despite earlier commitments to civilian rule, has drawn immediate international attention and is likely to provoke strong reactions from democratic allies.
Goita, who seized power in a 2020 coup and consolidated his position in a second coup in 2021, had previously pledged to hold elections and return the nation to constitutional governance. However, in a televised address today, he cited ongoing security challenges and the need for deeper reforms as reasons for the extended timeline.
The move significantly deviates from the initial agreements with regional bodies like ECOWAS, which had pressed for a swift return to democracy. Critics are expected to decry the extension as a further entrenchment of military power and a setback for democratic aspirations in the West African nation.
The announcement casts a long shadow over Mali’s political future and is anticipated to lead to increased diplomatic pressure and potential sanctions from international partners.
