Mali's Military Government Dissolves Political Parties, Extends Rule Amid Protests

In a decisive move that has intensified political tensions, Mali's military government, led by General Assimi Goïta, dissolved all political parties on May 13, 2025, and extended its rule, prompting widespread protests and international condemnation.

The dissolution of political parties and the extension of military rule represent a significant departure from Mali's previous commitments to democratic governance. These actions have sparked large-scale protests in the capital, Bamako, and raised concerns about the future of democracy in the West African nation.

General Assimi Goïta seized power through coups in 2020 and 2021. The junta had initially promised elections by February 2022, but these have been repeatedly delayed. In April 2025, a national political conference recommended extending Goïta's presidency for a renewable five-year term and dissolving all political parties.

On May 13, 2025, Goïta signed a decree officially dissolving all political parties and organizations across Mali. The announcement was made on national television by Mamani Nassire, a government minister, following an extraordinary council of ministers meeting. The decree also prohibited any gatherings or activities by members of the now-defunct political entities.

The dissolution intensified political unrest in Bamako, where large-scale protests erupted earlier in May, with demonstrators demanding democratic elections and denouncing dictatorship. Authorities suspended all political activities nationwide ahead of a scheduled protest on May 9, effectively stifling dissent.

Reports indicate that several opposition politicians, including Abba Alhassane of CODEM and El Bachir Thiam of the Yelema party, were abducted by individuals alleged to be connected to the security forces. Abdoul Karim Traore, another CODEM member, is also feared missing.

In June 2025, Mali's Council of Ministers approved a bill granting Goïta an additional five-year renewable term in power, starting in 2025. The bill must be ratified by the National Transitional Council, Mali's legislative body.

Amnesty International condemned the move as a "flagrant attack on the rights to freedom of expression and association." Former Prime Minister Moussa Mara described the junta's restrictions as dealing "a severe blow to the reconciliation efforts initiated last year."

Persistent power outages since 2023 have weakened industrial output and disrupted informal economic activities. Costly spending on military equipment and security needs drain the country's economy. Unpopular new taxes on telephone calls and mobile money transfers have fueled public discontent.

The military government's actions have exacerbated existing social and economic challenges in Mali. The dissolution of political parties and extension of military rule have raised concerns about the future of democracy in the country and the potential for increased political repression.