Mali Military Government Faces Test Amid Political Ban, Postponed Protests

Mali's military government, led by Colonel Assimi Goita, has faced growing public dissent following its decision to ban all political activities and suspend political parties to preserve public order ahead of planned protests. The government, which came to power after coups in 2020 and 2021, has postponed elections and seen only marginal improvements in security, with violence persisting outside the capital. Public anger was evident in early May when hundreds protested in Bamako against proposals to extend Goita's mandate until 2030 and dissolve political parties, marking a rare visible opposition to the military regime. Despite calls for civil disobedience and protests being postponed, social media campaigns continue, and analysts warn that the government's harsh measures risk provoking stronger backlash if protests grow or activists face repression. The situation remains tense as Mali grapples with worsening security and economic conditions, with some supporters of the government now viewing these moves as an attempt to consolidate power and undermining hopes for democracy. Violence may escalate as the military's grip tightens, and the coming days are seen as a critical test for both the regime and its critics.