Mali's Military Tensions Rise as Soldiers Arrested in Alleged Coup Plot

Recent coordinated arrests of Malian soldiers underscore rising tensions in the military leadership amid fears of a coup and escalating jihadist threats.

Dozens of soldiers in Mali have reportedly been detained on accusations of attempting to overthrow the military government, with the wave of arrests potentially continuing as political instability increases. The junta, led by Gen Asimi Goïta since his ascension through two coups in 2020 and 2021, has grown increasingly tight-lipped regarding the detentions. Early reports suggested high-profile figures, including Gen Abass Dembele and Gen Nema Sagara, were among those arrested; however, sources close to Dembele have refuted those claims, stating he is safe at home.

According to local reports, a lawmaker in the National Transition Council disclosed that about 50 soldiers had been taken into custody, while security sources estimate the number to be at least 20. These arrests are linked to alleged schemes aimed at destabilizing the military government's authority. The crackdown follows heightened political tensions exacerbated by the junta's ongoing repression of former Prime Ministers Moussa Mara and Choguel Maiga, both accused of undermining the state's credibility and facing severe repercussions.

Mara, known for his vocal opposition to the junta, has been imprisoned since August 1, while Maiga is facing judicial processes against him. The junta's recent decision to dissolve all political parties amidst growing anti-government protests signaled a severe reversal on reconciliation efforts initiated in the past year. Goïta's promise of elections last year has yet to materialize, and a five-year extension of the transitional government period has been adopted, allowing him to remain in power until at least 2030.

Mali's battle against jihadist insurgencies, which began in 2012, remains unresolved despite the junta's assurances that the military takeover was necessary for national security. The military government has sought assistance from Russian allies following a break in relations with France; however, escalating attacks by jihadist factions suggest no significant improvement in the security situation.