During a significant address on May 27, 2026, following Eid al-Adha prayers held at the presidential palace in Bamako, General of the Army Assimi Goïta, President of the Malian Transition, publicly broadened the scope of what constitutes terrorism. Speaking from Koulouba to an audience including the Prime Minister, the President of the National Transitional Council, cabinet members, and accredited diplomats in Mali, General Goïta declared that the concept of terrorism now extends beyond military actions to encompass media, economic, political, governmental, and international spheres.
An unconventional prayer ceremony
Due to prevailing security conditions in Bamako, this year’s solemn Eid prayer departed from its traditional venue at the Grand Mosque of Bagadadji. Instead, the ceremony took place in the banquet hall of Koulouba, specially adapted for the occasion. Imam Mahmoud Touré, who serves at the presidential palace mosque, led the prayers, offering supplications for enduring peace and stability across Mali.
A multifaceted address on national challenges
Following the prayer, General Goïta engaged with the press, portraying Mali as a target of what he termed “multiform terrorisms.” He emphasized that the pressures confronting the nation are no longer confined to military engagements but have expanded to include narratives disseminated by the media, economic leverage, and external political interference. He firmly stated, “No amount of relentless effort, through manipulated narratives, will ever undermine the Malian people’s unwavering resolve for peace and sovereignty.” The head of state urged Malians to rally behind the Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) and their allies, confirming that military operations would persist until the nation achieves “complete pacification.” He further reiterated the irreversible nature of the national refoundation initiative, known as Mali Kura.
One month after major offensives
This pivotal address comes approximately one month after a coordinated offensive launched by the Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM) and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). These groups attacked several Malian positions, an event that tragically resulted in the death of Defense Minister Sadio Camara on April 25, 2026. Since then, transitional authorities have intensified their appeals for national cohesion. Concurrently, FAMA and the African Corps continue to conduct extensive air and ground operations in the regions of Ségou, Kidal, and Ménaka.
