One of Mali’s most prominent former officials has officially aligned with a major opposition coalition, signaling a potential shift in the nation’s political landscape. Hamma Ag Mahmoud, who previously served as Minister of Labour and Civil Service under Mali’s late military leader General Moussa Traoré, has joined the Coalition of Forces for the Republic (CFR), led by influential cleric Imam Mahmoud Dicko.
a seasoned leader’s call for national unity
Hamma Ag Mahmoud, who also held key administrative roles as prefect in regions including Sikasso, Koulikoro, Ségou, Gao, and Tombouctou, has spent years advocating for peace and reconciliation. After joining the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) during the 2012 insurgency, he played a pivotal role in brokering the 2015 peace agreement between rebel factions and the Malian government. Now based in Mauritania since 2011, he has publicly criticized the country’s political class, declaring that it has failed the Malian people.
« The country is in a state of collapse, and we need all Malians to unite around a shared vision for our society, » he stated. « The CFR has taken the lead in proposing a national conference to correct past mistakes. All patriots should rally behind this effort. »
addressing extremism through governance
The former minister’s endorsement of the CFR comes amid growing concerns over the rise of armed groups, including those linked to al-Qaeda, particularly the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM). While many Malians remain skeptical about engaging with jihadist factions, Hamma Ag Mahmoud insists that dialogue is essential to restore stability.
« If jihadists are included in a unified national project, we can end this crisis, » he argued. « Restoring good governance will eliminate the conditions that breed extremism and rebellion. »
balancing sovereignty and republican values
The CFR’s proposal to engage with armed groups has sparked debate, especially regarding the application of Sharia law, which remains a core demand of groups like JNIM. Despite this tension, Hamma Ag Mahmoud maintains that democratic principles—equality, justice, and inclusion—must guide any negotiation process.
« Democracy is not just a word; it is a system that must be implemented by involving all Malians, » he emphasized. « Only then can we build a lasting peace. »