On May 13, 2025, Mali's transitional president, General Assimi Goïta, signed a decree dissolving all political parties and organizations across the nation. The announcement was made on national television by government minister Mamani Nassire following an extraordinary council of ministers meeting. The decree also prohibits any meetings by members of the dissolved entities.

This decisive action follows nearly two weeks of protests by pro-democracy activists and political parties opposing the military regime's increasing repression. Demonstrations erupted in early May in Bamako, with participants demanding democratic elections and denouncing the proposed extension of Goïta's rule for an additional five years. In response to the growing opposition, authorities suspended all political activities nationwide ahead of a scheduled protest on May 9, effectively stifling dissent.

The National Transition Council approved the decree despite public resistance. Critics, including former Prime Minister Moussa Mara, argue that the decision severely undermines ongoing reconciliation efforts. Political figures, such as Nouhoum Togo of the now-defunct Union for the Safeguard of the Republic, plan to challenge the decree in Mali's Constitutional Court, asserting that the Malian constitution guarantees the existence of political parties. Many opponents vow to continue advocating for democracy through civil society initiatives.

Mali has been under military rule since coups in 2020 and 2021, with General Goïta assuming power. The junta had initially promised elections by February 2022, but these have been repeatedly delayed, fueling public dissatisfaction. The recent actions, including the dissolution of political parties and suppression of dissent, have intensified political unrest in the capital, Bamako, where large-scale protests erupted earlier in May, with demonstrators demanding democratic elections and denouncing dictatorship.

The dissolution of political parties and the prohibition of their activities represent a significant setback for democratic governance in Mali. These measures effectively eliminate formal political opposition, potentially leading to increased political repression and human rights abuses. The suppression of dissent and the abduction of activists have raised concerns among human rights organizations and the international community.

This is not the first time Mali has experienced political upheaval. The country has a history of military coups, with the most recent ones occurring in 2020 and 2021. However, the complete dissolution of political parties is unprecedented and marks a significant departure from previous political crises.

The junta's actions can be seen as an attempt to consolidate power and suppress opposition ahead of proposed extensions to Goïta's rule. By dissolving political parties and banning their activities, the military government aims to eliminate organized dissent and maintain control over the political landscape.

Mali's political landscape is undergoing a profound transformation under the military junta's rule. The dissolution of political parties, coupled with the suppression of dissent, signals a move away from democratic governance and raises serious concerns about the future of civil liberties and human rights in the country. As opposition figures vow to continue advocating for democracy through civil society initiatives, the international community watches closely, urging a return to constitutional order and the protection of fundamental freedoms.