Embattled Mali junta to hold vote on new constitution

Mali’s embattled junta will hold a vote on the adoption of a new constitution, as the country’s strongman ruler’s potential bid for election sparks speculation.

“This marks the military’s first organized vote since seizing power in August 2020 amidst a prolonged political, security, and economic crisis.”

“However, the deep-rooted problems in Mali remain largely unresolved, which raises concerns about possible disruptions during the vote. The upcoming referendum serves as a milestone on the path toward the restoration of civilian rule by March 2024, as pledged by the military. Yet, less than nine months before the deadline, Mali lacks clarity regarding the future role of the military, including junta leader Colonel Assimi Goita.”

“On Sunday, Malians will cast their votes on the draft constitution, with green ballots indicating support for the constitution and red ballots representing opposition. The results are expected to be announced within 72 hours. The authorities have invested significant efforts in promoting the reform, claiming that it aims to address the shortcomings of the current constitution, implemented in 1992 and often blamed for Mali’s challenges.”

“Mali, a vast Sahel nation, grapples with jihadist violence, poverty, dilapidated infrastructure, and deteriorating education systems. If approved, the new constitution would bolster the military’s position, emphasizing “sovereignty” as a key principle, which the junta has advocated since coming to power and breaking ties with its former colonial ruler, France.”

“Most notably, the new constitution strengthens the powers of the president while also providing amnesty for individuals involved in previous coups. This has fueled ongoing speculation that Goita intends to run for president, despite assurances from the military rulers that he will not be a candidate. The proposed reform has garnered opposition from various groups, including former rebels, imams, and political adversaries.”

“Influential religious organizations are against the preservation of secularism enshrined in the current constitution, while former rebels in the north, who have signed a significant peace agreement with the state, also reject the draft constitution. Some political elites express dissatisfaction with the increased executive powers vested in the president. Sidi Toure, the spokesperson for the Party for National Rebirth (Parena), criticized the concentration of power in the hands of the president, describing it as a “personalization of power” and a “personality cult.” He emphasized the need for a new constitution to address these concerns and achieve a balance of power.”

“While the legitimacy of the proposed constitution is questioned, there are also security concerns surrounding the upcoming vote. Mali’s future remains uncertain due to the lack of clarity regarding the military’s future role, including that of Colonel Assimi Goita. Voters face the looming threat of jihadist violence in the north and central regions, where these groups continue to carry out deadly attacks against civilians and the military. Some argue that Mali should prioritize rallying its citizens for the fight against terrorism and poverty instead of focusing on the constitutional vote.”

“A researcher, speaking anonymously, argued that the old constitution was sufficient, suggesting that its non-application was not the root cause of the crisis. Historically, voter turnout in Mali has been low, with political scientist Abdoul Sogodogo noting that since 1992, participation has rarely exceeded 30 percent. Observers believe that a “yes” vote is highly likely, as Malians express dissatisfaction with previous democratic regimes and widespread corruption, hoping for a change.”

“Supporters of the constitutional reform rely on the strong popularity of Goita and the transitional authorities. However, some critics argue that the referendum is being portrayed as an endorsement of the transitional period, diverting attention from a thorough examination of the content of the new constitution.”