Mali Junta Dissolves Political Parties, Intensifying Democratic Crisis

In a decisive move to consolidate power, Mali's military junta, led by Gen. Assimi Goïta, dissolved all political parties on May 13, 2025, intensifying concerns over the nation's democratic backsliding. This unprecedented action follows a series of measures aimed at suppressing political dissent, including the suspension of political activities and the abduction of opposition figures. The junta's actions have drawn widespread condemnation from international human rights organizations and have significant implications for Mali's political future and regional stability.

Mali has experienced significant political upheaval since 2020, marked by two military coups that have reshaped its governance landscape. In August 2020, Colonel Assimi Goïta led a coup that ousted President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta, citing the government's failure to address corruption and escalating jihadist insurgencies. A subsequent coup in May 2021 consolidated Goïta's power, positioning him as the transitional president. The junta initially pledged to restore civilian rule by February 2022; however, this commitment has been repeatedly deferred, leading to growing domestic and international concern.

In May 2025, the military junta intensified its control over Mali's political sphere. On May 3, hundreds of activists in Bamako staged a significant pro-democracy rally, protesting the government's proposal to dissolve all political parties. In response to the protests, the junta suspended all political activities nationwide on May 7, citing "reasons of public order." On May 13, the military government officially dissolved all political parties and organizations, further consolidating its authority.

The dissolution of political parties and suppression of political activities have profound implications for Malian society. The junta's actions dismantle the multiparty system established under the 1992 constitution, undermining democratic governance. Reports of abductions and enforced disappearances of opposition figures, such as Abba Alhassane and El Bachir Thiam, indicate a systematic effort to silence critics. The suspension of international media outlets like TV5 Monde reflects a broader crackdown on free speech and press freedom.

The junta's actions contravene Mali's 1992 constitution, which guarantees the existence of political parties and the right to political association. The dissolution of political parties and suspension of political activities represent a significant departure from constitutional norms and democratic principles.

While Mali has experienced political instability in the past, the current level of suppression of political parties and civil liberties is unprecedented in its recent history. The junta's consolidation of power and extension of its rule by five years, as approved in June 2025, marks a significant deviation from previous transitional arrangements.

The junta's actions may be driven by a desire to eliminate political opposition and consolidate power, particularly in the face of mounting domestic discontent and international pressure to return to civilian rule. By dissolving political parties and suppressing dissent, the junta aims to neutralize potential challenges to its authority.

The military junta's recent actions represent a significant escalation in the suppression of political opposition and democratic processes in Mali. The dissolution of political parties, suspension of political activities, and reported abductions of opposition figures underscore a troubling trend toward authoritarianism. These developments have profound implications for the country's democratic trajectory, civil liberties, and regional stability.