Mali: concerns rise over proposal to dismantle political parties

In response to the suggestion that all political parties in Mali be dissolved following discussions on revising the Charter of Political Parties, Ousmane Diallo, a Sahel researcher at Amnesty International’s regional office, issued a warning:

“We are deeply troubled by the proposal to abolish political parties in Mali. This would represent a severe violation of the fundamental rights to freedom of association and expression. The transitional government must halt its intensifying crackdown on civic space and uphold the human rights of every citizen, including opposition members, activists, and critics.”

“The proposed dissolution would contradict the 2023 Constitution, which was enacted by the current transitional authorities. This document specifically protects the existence of political parties, affirming their right to organize and conduct activities within the framework of the law.”

“Moreover, such a measure is entirely incompatible with the international human rights treaties that Mali has ratified, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

Context

Since the beginning of 2024, the military leadership in Mali has significantly increased its pressure on political organizations.

Between April 10 and July 10, 2024, a government decree officially suspended the activities of both political parties and politically-oriented associations. During this period, the authorities also prohibited the media from reporting on political matters. This crackdown followed calls from various groups for the authorities to honor the transition roadmap and hold elections to restore constitutional governance.

In May 2024, a national dialogue was convened by the government. Although it was boycotted by most major political entities, the forum recommended extending the transition until the nation reaches “stabilization.” Other suggestions from this dialogue included removing public funding for political groups and making the requirements for establishing new parties much more stringent.

The situation escalated in June 2024 when 11 prominent political leaders were arrested. They faced charges of “conspiracy against the state” and “opposition to legitimate authority.” These individuals remained in custody until their provisional release in December 2024.