Mali’s military-appointed legislative body has granted General Assimi Goïta, the country’s junta leader, a renewable five-year term in office without the need for an election. This move effectively extends his rule until at least 2030, contradicting the junta’s earlier promise to restore civilian rule by March 2024.
The bill was unanimously approved by 131 members of the National Transitional Council, with Malick Diaw, the council’s president, calling it “a major step forward in the rebuilding of Mali”. Diaw emphasized that “the adoption of this text is in accordance with the popular will”. However, critics argue that this decision further entrenches military rule and stifles democratic processes.
General Goïta seized power in two coups, first in August 2020 and then in May 2021, after huge anti-government protests against the rule of then-President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta and his handling of the jihadist insurgency. Despite promises to stabilize the country, attacks have intensified since he took power. The military government has been trying to quell jihadist violence unleashed by groups linked to the Islamic State and al-Qaeda.
Since taking power, Goïta has formed an alliance with coup leaders in neighboring Burkina Faso and Niger, pivoting the region towards Russia after cutting ties with former colonial power France. Mali has also withdrawn from the regional grouping Ecowas over its demands to restore democratic rule, with Burkina Faso and Niger following suit.
The extension of Goïta’s term comes amid a broader authoritarian shift, with the junta formally banning all political parties in May 2025. The initial roadmap promised by Goïta’s regime included a transition to civilian rule by March 2024, but that deadline has now passed without an election. The legislation now awaits Goïta’s formal signature, which is expected to be a formality.
This development has raised concerns about the future of democracy in Mali, with many fearing the move could lead to the repression of opposition or dissenting opinions. International observers and regional bodies like ECOWAS are expected to respond, potentially deepening tensions and prompting new calls for sanctions or diplomatic isolation.