The Mali celebrated its Independence Day on September 22, a national holiday marking 66 years of sovereignty. In a televised address the previous evening, Assimi Goïta, the leader of the transitional government, hailed the nation’s economic progress, pledged to intensify efforts against armed groups, and emphasized national reconciliation. He also framed Mali‘s involvement in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) as a step toward greater sovereignty, relying on support from Russia‘s Africa Corps.
Opposition voices dissent from abroad
Not everyone in Mali shares the junta’s optimism. Political dissent has been largely suppressed within the country, leaving many voices unheard. However, one prominent figure remains vocal from exile: Etienne Fakaba Sissoko, a former academic turned opposition leader and spokesperson for the Coalition of Forces for the Republic (CFR), led by Imam Dicko. The CFR brings together political and civil society opponents who have fled the country.
Sissoko strongly criticized Goïta‘s remarks, arguing that the celebration of independence should not be conflated with the transitional government’s record. “One can deeply love Mali and support our soldiers while still demanding accountability from those who have seized power,” he told David Baché. “The people of Mali are waiting for results—security, jobs, electricity, freedom, and a real political future.”
He also questioned the government’s silence on Russia‘s involvement, calling it an implicit admission of failure. “The partnership with Russia has yielded nothing but disaster. Just ten days ago, the attack on Dioura showed the true cost of this alliance. Over a hundred Malian soldiers were killed, and dozens were captured,” Sissoko pointed out, referring to a recent jihadist assault claimed by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), an al-Qaeda affiliate.
A nation in mourning, not celebration
“Today, Mali is not in a festive mood,” Sissoko concluded. “The country is in a state of unprecedented decay. I refuse to celebrate. I am in mourning because the situation under this regime dishonors Mali.”
