Mali’s ruling on Wednesday, May 7, the military government announced an indefinite suspension of all party activities and associations “for public order reasons” as opposition continues to protest the government’s tense protests against dissidents.
The decree signed by government leader Assimi Goita was read out on state television and radio stations. Opposition parties called for a restoration of the original state and return to the constitutional rule of the Sahel state in conflict took place at a rally held on Friday.
The suspension applies to all “associations of political characteristics” and marks another significant restriction on the country’s political freedom, which has been under military rule since the two consecutive coups in 2020 and 2021.
The latest move comes after the government’s April 30 decision to abolish the law on party action – an action law expert said it could pave the way for their complete disbandment.
In response, a coalition of about 100 political parties was formed to demand an end to the transition to military leadership by December 31, 2025 and urge a clear timetable to restore constitutional governance.
The coalition organized a rare public protest in Bamako last Saturday, drawing hundreds of protesters, a bold move to increasingly suppress the opposition regime.
Authorities had previously suspended party activities for three months in 2024, and the new law indicated a deepening crackdown on political dissent.
