The UN’s concerns center on two critical issues: the suspension of elections without a clear timeline and the increasing crackdown on civil society voices. Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, warns that recent legislative changes could have long-lasting consequences for human rights in the country. He urges the transitional authorities to take immediate and concrete steps to repeal these problematic laws, stating that they undermine citizens’ rights to participate in public affairs, vote, and run for office.

Unlimited mandate and arrests of key figures

In July, General Assimi Goïta, who has led the military junta since 2021, signed into law a measure granting himself an indefinite presidential mandate, effectively making him the head of state. This move has been widely criticized as it effectively closes the door on any near-term democratic elections, contravening the fundamental right of citizens to engage in public life through free and fair elections. “These legal changes must be reversed without delay,” Türk emphasized.

Earlier in May, the government also dissolved political parties, a decision now under review by the Constitutional Court.

Ending the weaponization of the law

Simultaneously, the arrest of prominent civil society figures and former officials, such as anti-corruption activist Clément Dembélé and former Prime Minister Choguel Maïga, has raised serious concerns. The High Commissioner condemned the sharp increase in detentions based on vague accusations of undermining state credibility, often for merely expressing dissenting views. “The arbitrary detention of individuals solely for exercising their right to free speech is deeply troubling,” he stated, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained persons. “The misuse of the law to silence opposition must cease immediately.”