Dozens of Malian Soldiers Detained Amid Coup Plot Allegations

Amid rising tensions within Mali's military government, dozens of soldiers have reportedly been arrested for allegedly plotting to overthrow the junta.

In a surprising turn of events in Mali, numerous soldiers have been detained under suspicions of an attempted coup against the ruling military leaders. The arrests, which are believed to have commenced overnight, suggest a deepening discord within the military ranks, coinciding with a growing Islamist insurgency in the northern regions of the country.

While official comments on the situation remain absent, reports indicate that high-ranking military figures, including Gen Abass Dembele and Gen Nema Sagara, were initially believed to be among those arrested. Nevertheless, sources close to Gen Dembele have confirmed that he had not been detained and is reportedly safe.

According to various military insiders and sources from the transitional council, the arrested soldiers are suspected of plotting to destabilize the junta's hold on power. Reports suggest around 50 soldiers may have been arrested, although other security sources indicate that at least 20 arrests have unequivocally occurred over a series of days.

These arrests are taking place against a backdrop of heightened political tensions, particularly following the junta's crackdown on former Prime Ministers Moussa Mara and Choguel Maiga, both of whom faced serious accusations that include damaging the state's reputation and embezzlement. Mara, known for his critical stance against the military leadership, has been in detention since August 1, while Maiga is facing judicial repercussions.

Furthermore, the junta led by Gen Asimi Goïta, who has been in power since his takeover in 2020, has seen a recent escalation in political unrest. Following substantial anti-government protests in May, the junta dissolved all political parties, which Mara condemned as detrimental to reconciliation efforts. Although Gen Goïta had pledged to hold elections, the timeline has been extended by five years, prolonging military rule until at least 2030.

Mali has grappled with a persistent Islamist insurgency since 2012, which was one of the justifications for the military's ascendance. Despite receiving assistance from Russian allies after severing ties with France, attacks from jihadist groups in the area have intensified, leaving significant concerns about the country's security situation. As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, with many questions regarding the future of governance in Mali.