The African Union (AU) said it has welcomed the decision by Mali’s interim government to hold a referendum on a new Constitution on June 18.
The military dominated transitional authorities announced the date of referendum on Friday.
In a statement the AU issued on Tuesday, the chairperson of the AU Commission Moussa Mahamat said it is a key step to return to civilian rule in Bamako.
Voters will choose to either accept or reject the draft already contested by some political opponents, according to reports.
Mahamat appealed to all Malians to “put the interest of the country first” and “contribute to the success of the referendum”.
A new constitution is one of the important steps put in place before the restoration of civilian rule in the West African nation.
The last elected President Ibrahim Keita was ousted in a 2020 coup amid street protests against his rule.
The AU commended “all efforts afforded by the transitional Authorities” including the establishment of the Independent Electoral Organ and respective mechanisms.
Political actors, religious groups and other stakeholders urged by the AUC chairperson to “constructively engage the transitional authorities towards building an inclusive, democratic and capable State.”
Mahamat also reiterated “the need for an inclusive, transparent and credible management of the transition process,” ahead of the upcoming elections.
The west African nation will hold a presidential poll in February 2024.
MG/abj/APA