Mali's military leadership has announced the arrest of a French citizen, Yann Vezilier, on suspicion of espionage as part of a larger alleged coup plot aimed at destabilizing the country. The allegations were made in a televised statement by Security Minister Gen Daoud Aly Mohammedine, who claimed Vezilier was acting "on behalf of the French intelligence service." The minister asserted that the situation has been contained and that the arrests of various military and civilian individuals involved in the conspiracy have thwarted the alleged coup.
As part of these investigations, the junta has also arrested notable figures, including two army generals, one of whom is Gen Abass Dembele. In total, security sources reported that at least 55 people, including military personnel and civilians, have been detained in connection to the plot. This wave of arrests comes in the backdrop of a worsening security crisis in Mali, which has been affected by an ongoing Islamist insurgency since 2012.
The current political landscape in Mali has been tense, with recent arrests of former Prime Ministers Moussa Mara and Choguel Maïga. Mara, known for his criticism of the military regime, has been detained since August 1 for allegedly harming state reputation and embezzlement, while Maïga faces judicial repercussions. Additionally, the junta's dissolution of political parties last May after anti-government protests has compounded the challenges to stability and led to accusations of hampering reconciliation efforts.
Gen Mohammedine further noted that "foreign states" have allegedly assisted certain elements within the Malian armed forces in their attempts to undermine the government. These developments have fueled speculation regarding France's role in Mali, especially as the relationship between the two nations, previously marked by colonial ties, continues to deteriorate. Amidst these challenges, Mali has turned to Russian allies for support to address jihadist threats, following a severance of ties with France, although substantial improvements in security have yet to be realized.
The military junta, led by Gen Asimi Goïta, who orchestrated takeovers in both 2020 and 2021, had promised elections last year, which have yet to occur. The transition period was further extended for five years this past July, granting Goïta continued authority over the nation until at least 2030.
