Mali bans media coverage of political parties amid suspension of political activities

By James Tasamba

KIGALI, Rwanda (AA) – Mali's military junta on Thursday banned media coverage of political parties a day after suspending their activities.

A statement by Mali's high authority for communication called on “all media (radio, television, written press and online) to halt broadcast and publication of the activities of political parties and the activities of a political nature of associations.”

The ban came a day after authorities ordered the indefinite suspension of all political activities, citing the need to maintain public order.

The US State Department’s Africa Bureau in a statement expressed deep concern over the government's decision.

“Political activities are crucial for ensuring representation and participation in democracy. Suspension of such activities denies the people of Mali a voice in government,” it said.

The West African nation has been under military rule for the past four years, having witnessed several coups.

Junta leader Col. Assimi Goita had vowed in June 2022 that the military would restore civilian rule by March 26, 2024, but it was later postponed.

The latest decision on political activities came after more than 80 political parties and civic groups at the end of last month called on the junta to hold presidential elections as soon as possible to end transitional military rule. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​