des experts de l’ONU pressent les putschistes d’abroger le décret suspendant les activités des partis politiques
Summary of the Situation in Mali
Recent developments in Mali’s political landscape have drawn significant concern from independent experts associated with the United Nations Human Rights Council. These experts have urged the ruling military junta, led by General Assimi Goïta, to immediately revoke a decree that suspends activities of political parties and associations. This decree, made public last Wednesday, has plunged the nation into a severe political crisis.
The experts stress that the continuation of this decree violates fundamental human rights, specifically the freedoms of association and expression. They point out that the proposed bill from April 30, which seeks to eliminate essential protections for political participation, is not only unconstitutional but also contravenes Mali’s international human rights obligations.
Citing a claim of "public order," the junta suspended political activities amidst calls for demonstrations from a coalition of opposition parties against the potential dissolution of political groups and in favor of restoring constitutional governance. The junta’s justification—that these measures are intended to curb the proliferation of political parties—has been dismissed by the experts, who argue that such claims lack credibility in an environment where civic space is severely restricted. Concerns have been raised about opposition members and independent journalists facing repression for expressing dissent.
In anticipation of the upcoming protests, the experts emphasized that the right to peaceful assembly is crucial for a vibrant political community. They have urged the transitional authorities to respect this right and refrain from intimidating or suppressing protestors, as this would threaten both their physical safety and their rights.
In a parallel development, Amnesty International has called on Mali’s military leaders to reverse their decision on the suspension of political party activities, labeling it unconstitutional according to the 2023 constitution, which protects the right to form and operate political parties legally. The organization underscored that this suspension contradicts Mali’s international obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The broader context reveals that Mali is mired in a deep political crisis. A national dialogue convened by the junta in late April was largely boycotted by opposition parties, which subsequently recommended the outright abolition of political parties. In reaction, the junta announced plans to annul the law governing political party operations.
In response to the threat of dissolution, a coalition comprising around a hundred parties has emerged, demanding an end to the military-led transitional government by December 31, 2025, and calling for a swift return to constitutional order. This coalition managed to rally several hundred participants during a protest last Saturday, with additional demonstrations planned in the capital, Bamako.
The situation remains critically charged as Mali grapples with the fallout from military governance that continues to encounter resistance from various political factions. The experts and advocacy groups continue to monitor developments closely, advocating for the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms amidst a backdrop of increasing political tensions.
