BAMAKO (Reuters) – An alliance in junta-led Mali reported several leaders were arrested during a private meeting at a minister’s house. They have demanded their prompt release in a public statement.
Since a 2020 coup, Mali, now under military rule, issued an April decree restricting political life for public order.
The group did not disclose the total number of detainees. Boubacar Toure confirmed 11 arrests, primarily of political leaders.
“The parties … condemn with the utmost rigor these arbitrary arrests, which violate the constitution and all the laws of Mali,” the group’s statement said.
It accused the authorities of pursuing “a path to dictatorship … with the sole aim of staying in power and silencing all democratic and republican voices.”
The authorities did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Mali’s ruling junta responded to criticism by suspending political parties and related associations’ activities. This action followed a joint statement urging the government to uphold election promises.
In response to the junta’s order, the group turned to the Malian Supreme Court but it is not clear when the top court will consider the appeal.
The arrests amid the Malian political crackdown have triggered protests and strong condemnation from political parties and civil society groups.
Subsequently, the military has maintained substantial control over the nation’s political scene, despite pledges to move towards civilian governance.
The recent arrests of political leaders mark a significant escalation of the Malian political crackdown, exacerbating tensions between military authorities and opposition factions.
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