The Malian government announced the immediate suspension of Diarra Transport’s operations following the release of a controversial video by the terrorist organization, the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM).
In the recording, JNIM spokesperson Bina Diarra claimed that the jihadist group had authorized the transport company to resume its operations, but only under specific religious and social conditions.
Diarra Transport had previously halted its services after being targeted by JNIM several months ago. The group accused the company of collaborating with the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) by transporting soldiers and military equipment, and allegedly reporting passengers to the authorities. These accusations led JNIM to ban the company from several crucial routes in the north and center of the country.
In the recently published video, Bina Diarra declared that the company could resume routes, provided it adhered to several strict demands, including: Segregation of men and women in vehicles. Mandatory full-face veils for female passengers. Compensation payments in the event of an accident.
These statements, widely interpreted as the company submitting to the demands of an armed group, sparked strong domestic and international reactions.
In an official statement, the Ministry of Transport referenced a “presumed agreement” between Diarra Transport and the JNIM, while noting that “grey areas persist regarding the reality and nature of this supposed commitment.” The ministry therefore ordered the company to suspend its planned resumption of operations, initially scheduled for October 23, until further notice.
This decisive measure comes amid a tense security environment, marked by a recent surge in attacks on fuel convoys that has caused a serious fuel shortage across the country, including in Bamako. The government’s action reflects a clear intent to reaffirm the primacy of the State over national roads and to prevent any direct negotiations between private actors and armed groups.
MD/te/Sf/fss/abj/APA