This incident has heightened tensions surrounding the transitional government’s controversial suspension of political activities, enacted on April 10, 2024.
The Malian transitional government suspended all political party and association activities in April 2024, a decision met with significant domestic and international criticism.
On June 20th, gendarmerie forces raided Dicko’s residence in Bamako, where eleven political leaders were holding an informal meeting. All those present, including prominent figures like former minister Mohamed Aly Bathily, ADEMA-PASJ’s Moustapha Dicko, and Mamadou Traore, president of the Union Party, were arrested.
The arrests have sparked public concern and are viewed as a potential crackdown on dissent. International observers have urged the government to reconsider the suspension of political activities and promote open dialogue. Families of the arrested individuals are calling for a swift and peaceful resolution.
The actions of the transitional government, particularly regarding the detainees and the suspension of political activities, remain under close scrutiny. This incident raises serious questions about the state of freedom of expression and political participation in Mali.
MD/te/fss/abj/APA