May 17, 2026

The Panafrican Press

English-language platform committed to rigorous, independent journalism across the African continent.

Amnesty international demands restoration of freedom of movement in Mali

Human rights advocates are urging insurgent groups in Mali to prioritize the safety and mobility of the population. For the past fortnight, the capital city, Bamako, has been subjected to a rigorous road blockade orchestrated by the JNIM. This siege, which began at the end of April, has severed critical supply lines for the landlocked nation, leaving the capital vulnerable as it relies heavily on road-based imports.

Depuis deux semaines, le Jnim soumet Bamako à un blocus en réduisant les entrées dans la capitale malienne<span class="copyright">Aboubacar Traore/REUTERS</span>” decoding=”async” data-nimg=”fill” class=”object-cover object-center” style=”position:absolute;height:100%;width:100%;left:0;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;color:transparent” src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/fenOvIo0M5bgwKgfTYgznw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD02OTk7Y2Y9d2VicA–/https://media.zenfs.com/fr/deutsche_welle_fr_953/f23bb55f4fc0fd136b022cb9e2b2356d”>
<p>The current restrictions on movement are creating an untenable situation for civilians. There are growing fears that this isolation will lead to catastrophic violations of basic rights, specifically regarding access to food, healthcare, and the fundamental right to life. Organizations are calling for a strict adherence to international humanitarian standards to prevent further suffering.</p>
<p>Reports highlight a specific incident on May 6, where a convoy of civilian trucks was targeted. These vehicles, transporting essential goods like fruit between Bamako and Bougouni, were not part of any military operation and carried no soldiers or hardware. Despite this, they were not spared from the violence.</p>
<img loading=