Mali Junta Appoints General Maiga as Prime Minister

Mali's military junta has dismissed civilian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga and his entire government following his criticism of their handling of the transition to civilian rule. The announcement, made by Secretary General Alfousseyni Diawara, indicates growing tensions within the junta, which has been in power since a series of coups in 2020 and 2021. Maiga had expressed frustration over the indefinite postponement of promised elections and the lack of transparency regarding the transition process. His removal raises further uncertainty in a country already grappling with jihadist violence and a fragile political landscape. General Abdoulaye Maiga, previously the government's spokesman, has been appointed as the new prime minister, reinforcing the military's grip on power. The junta's previous commitments to restore civilian rule by March 2024 now appear increasingly tenuous.