Mali's ruling junta has replaced Prime Minister Choguel Maiga with Abdoulaye Maiga, its spokesperson, following Choguel Maiga's public criticism of the administration. State television ORTM announced the dismissal a day after Choguel Maiga condemned the junta for failing to adhere to a promised 24-month transition to democratic elections. The military rulers, who seized power in coups in 2020 and 2021, had initially planned elections for February but have since postponed them indefinitely, citing technical issues. Choguel Maiga’s remarks reportedly angered the ruling generals, exposing growing tensions within Mali’s political leadership.
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The removal of Choguel Maiga highlights increasing frustrations among Malian politicians, including those who initially supported the junta. Appointed prime minister by the military in 2021, Choguel Maiga had previously defended the junta amid international criticism of its collaboration with Russian mercenaries and delays in returning to civilian rule. However, his recent complaints about the lack of transparency and exclusion from key decisions, such as the election postponement, put him at odds with the junta. His dismissal underscores the deepening divisions within the government as the promised democratic transition remains elusive.
Abdoulaye Maiga, the new prime minister, has been a prominent public figure as government spokesperson, often adopting a confrontational stance against France, Mali's former colonial power. In past statements, he criticized French President Emmanuel Macron for what he called a "neocolonial" attitude. Despite this leadership change, the junta has retained key cabinet ministers in their positions, signaling continuity in its policies. The leadership reshuffle reflects the junta's effort to consolidate power amid mounting criticism and internal discord over its delayed electoral promises.
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