Mali's junta chief gives himself top army rank, delaying civilian rule
Maliʼs military leader Assimi Goita promoted himself to army general a move seen as a sign of his intent to keep power. Five other colonels were also promoted raising concerns about the transition to civilian rule
In a bold move Assimi Goita the head of Malis military junta‚ has promoted himself to the rank of army general. This action taken about four years after seizing power‚ suggests heʼs not planning to give up control anytime soon.
The announcement came from the Council of Ministers which posted a statement on the governments website. Goita now holds the highest military distinction in Mali – a title shared by only two former heads of state in the countrys history.
Whats more‚ five other influential colonels from the junta were also exceptionally promoted to four-star generals. This decision has raised eyebrows among political analysts.
Rida Lyammouri a senior fellow at the Morocco-based Policy Center for the New South shared his thoughts:
This is another indication that junta leaders will continue to position themselves as the only rulers‚ and have no intention of having a democratic transition into civilian rule anytime soon
The landlocked West African nation has yet to set a date for its presidential election leaving many to wonder about the future of Malis democracy
As it stands‚ these promotions seem to be another step away from civilian rule – a concerning development for those hoping for a swift return to democratic governance in Mali
