Mali’s state prosecutor on Thursday charged six people, including former Prime Minister Boubou Cisse, of planning a coup against the interim government.

The alleged crimes include attempts to destabilize and disrupt the current regime, according to a statement by the state prosecutor. 

Cisse, who hasn’t been detained, denied the allegations in a statement on Dec. 22.

Cisse’s lawyers said in a statement on Thursday that they will file charges regarding his treatment, including a violent arrest attempt.

Mali is experiencing a period of political instability following an Aug. 18 military coup that overthrew former President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.

The military junta has since agreed to form a civilian-led interim government. Elections are scheduled for 2022.

What does the legal pursuit against Cisse and co-accused mean for stability in Mali?

Let’s hear from security analyst Abdulaye Niang.