Political parties in Mali have filed legal appeals in response to a military-imposed ban that dissolves all political parties and restricts their activities. They are contesting this decree on the grounds of violating fundamental rights. The junta defends the ban as a means to streamline political operations, all while suggesting a renewed term for General Goita as president.
Political parties in Mali are now resorting to legal action following a controversial ban imposed by the military government. A statement sent to AFP on Wednesday revealed that these parties have filed a court petition to challenge the dissolution of their organizations, a decree announced earlier this month by the junta, which is led by General Assimi Goita. This move effectively bars political entities from operating and restricts meetings.
The affected parties, in a joint declaration, informed the public they have lodged appeals with six high courts in the Bamako district and additionally with the administrative section of the Supreme Court. They aim to contest the legality of the presidential decree that enacted their dissolution and evaluate its repercussions on political activities in the country.
The political groups argue that such a ban significantly undermines the liberties associated with the freedom of association, assembly, and the right to participate in public life. In total, Mali has approximately 300 identified political groups, and the military government insists that the dissolution is essential for streamlining operations within a chaotic political landscape.
This action marks yet another restriction on civil freedoms imposed by the military after its ascent to power through two consecutive coups in 2020 and 2021. In a national consultation held in April, recommendations were made for tougher regulations regarding party establishment, further tightening the grip on political participation in Mali.
Additionally, the junta proposed that General Goita assume a renewed five-year presidential term, despite an earlier commitment to restore civilian rule by March of last year. Recently, a collective of Malian writers, lawyers, and economists publicly criticized the junta’s actions, asserting that it infringes upon fundamental rights.
They demanded that the military engage all factions within Malian society to develop a new electoral calendar, which should encompass both presidential and legislative elections to take place in the near future. They also called for the immediate release of “all prisoners of conscience,” reflecting the escalating tensions within the civil landscape.
Notably, Mali’s 1992 constitution guarantees multipartyism alongside freedom of expression and association, protections which the junta reaffirmed in 2023. However, the continuous violence from insurgent factions linked to Al-Qaeda and local criminal gangs since 2012 has complicated the country’s political situation and stability.
In summary, Mali’s political parties are actively challenging the military government’s ban on their operations through legal petitions. This situation highlights significant concerns regarding civil liberties and the future of political engagement in the country. With an increasing number of restrictions and a questionable commitment to restoring civilian rule, the political landscape remains precarious. The junta’s actions have sparked public outrage and calls for reform among various sectors of society.
Original Source: www.trt.global
