Pro-Democracy Protests Erupt in Mali as Military Junta Tightens Grip

In early May 2025, Mali's capital, Bamako, became the epicenter of significant pro-democracy demonstrations, marking the first major public dissent since the military coups of 2020 and 2021. Hundreds of activists took to the streets on May 3, protesting the ruling junta's proposal to dissolve all political parties and extend military rule.

The demonstrations were a direct response to the government's increasing authoritarian measures and the indefinite postponement of promised elections. Protesters voiced their opposition to the junta's plans, emphasizing the need for a return to civilian governance.

In the days following the protests, the military government intensified its crackdown on political activities. On May 7, the junta suspended all political activities nationwide, citing the need to maintain public order. This suspension was formalized on May 13 when transitional President Gen. Assimi Goïta signed a decree dissolving all political parties and organizations, effectively banning any political gatherings.

These actions have been met with widespread criticism from opposition groups and international observers, who view them as severe setbacks to democratic governance in Mali. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing tensions between the military government and pro-democracy activists.

The government's suppression extended beyond legislative measures to include the targeting of individuals. On May 8, two pro-democracy activists, Alassane Abba of the Codem party and El Bachir Thiam from the Yelema party, were abducted by armed men in military attire after publicly criticizing the military government and advocating for a return to constitutional rule. Other opposition figures, including Mamadou Traoré, president of the Alternative for Mali party, have also been detained, reflecting a pattern of silencing dissent through arrests and enforced disappearances.

The junta's actions have elicited strong reactions from both domestic and international entities. The United Nations expressed deep concern over the suspension of political activities, emphasizing that such measures must be immediately repealed to uphold democratic freedoms. Human Rights Watch condemned the dissolution of political parties and the crackdown on dissent, urging the African Union to take action to end the repression. Domestically, political parties and civil society groups have rejected the junta's decrees, vowing to challenge them in court and continue advocating for democracy through civil society initiatives.

In addition to political repression, the junta has imposed restrictions on media. In April 2024, the High Authority for Communication directed all media to halt broadcasting and publishing the activities of political parties and associations, further stifling public discourse. On May 14, 2025, the Malian High Authority for Communication issued a broadcasting ban on the French TV channel TV5 Monde for its coverage of the protests.

The junta's actions have profound implications. The dissolution of political parties and suppression of dissent undermine the foundations of democratic governance and the rule of law. Arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, and media censorship constitute significant human rights abuses, drawing international condemnation. Mali's political instability has broader implications for the Sahel region, potentially affecting neighboring countries and international efforts to combat extremism.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains watchful, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic principles and human rights in Mali.