Mali’s Council of Ministers has adopted a decree to extend the military-led transition by five more years, potentially keeping interim President Assimi Goita in power until 2030. The bill is now awaiting approval from the transitional parliament.
The decision marks a significant shift in Mali’s political timeline, originally aimed at returning the country to civilian rule following the August 2021 coup. Authorities say the extension is necessary to complete reforms and restore long-term stability.
This move mirrors similar proposals across other Alliance of Sahel States (AES) members, where military governments seek more time to restructure governance and security systems.
Critics argue the extension undermines democratic transition promises, while supporters claim it provides the continuity needed for Mali to rebuild institutions and combat insecurity.