In response to Mali’s proposal to dissolve all political parties following consultations on the revision of the Political Parties Charter, Ousmane Diallo, Sahel researcher at Amnesty International’s West and Central Africa regional office, issued a stark warning:
« The prospect of dissolving political parties in Mali raises serious concerns, as it would represent a blatant violation of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and association. Authorities must halt their escalating crackdown on civic space and uphold the human rights of all citizens—particularly critics, human rights defenders, and opposition members—without exception.»
Such a move would directly contradict Mali’s 2023 Transitional Constitution, which explicitly guarantees the existence of political parties and their right to « freely form and operate under conditions determined by law. »
The proposal also clashes with Mali’s international human rights obligations, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, both of which the country has ratified.
What’s driving the political turmoil in Mali?
Since 2024, Mali’s military-led authorities have intensified repression against political parties, escalating restrictions on civic engagement.
Between April 10 and July 10, 2024, decrees were issued to suspend « all political party activities and political-related actions by associations, » alongside a ban on media coverage of political events. Numerous parties had urged authorities to adhere to the Transition Charter and facilitate elections to restore constitutional order.
A national dialogue convened in May 2024—widely boycotted by political factions—recommended extending the transition period until « national stability is achieved. » Proposals also included tightening party registration requirements and eliminating public funding for political organizations.
In June 2024, 11 opposition party leaders were detained on charges of « conspiring against state authority » and « opposing legitimate governance. » After months of detention, they were granted provisional release in December 2024.