Dozens of Malian Soldiers Arrested Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Military Government

Mali’s political crisis has deepened amid reports that dozens of soldiers have been arrested for allegedly plotting to topple the country’s military leadership. The wave of arrests, which reportedly began several days ago and continued overnight, highlights escalating tensions within the military government. These internal strains coincide with growing challenges from a jihadist insurgency gaining ground in the northern regions of Mali. Authorities have so far remained silent on the details of the arrests.

Initial information suggested that General Abass Dembele, former governor of the Mopti region, and General Nema Sagara one of the few women in Mali’s highest military ranks were among those detained. However, sources close to General Dembele have confirmed he is not among the arrested and is reported to be in good health.

According to multiple sources within the military and the junta-backed transitional council, the detained soldiers are accused of planning to overthrow the ruling government. The number of arrests varies between reports, with figures ranging from about 20 to as many as 50 individuals, all connected to efforts to destabilize Mali’s institutions.

These arrests come against the backdrop of heightened political tension following the junta’s crackdown on prominent former Prime Ministers Moussa Mara and Choguel Maiga. Mara, a vocal critic of the military regime, has been detained since early August on charges relating to harming the reputation of the state and embezzlement, while Maiga is currently facing judicial sanctions.

The junta’s heavy-handed approach intensified earlier this year when all political parties were dissolved amid rare anti-government protest, a move widely condemned as a setback to national reconciliation efforts.

The military leader, General Assimi Goïta, who seized power through two coups in 2020 and 2021, had initially promised elections in 2022, but these have yet to take place. In July, the transitional period was extended by five years, allowing Goïta to remain at the helm of Mali until at least 2030.

Given Mali’s recent history with coup attempts, the accused soldiers face serious consequences. The junta has in the past pursued harsh penalties against those suspected of plotting against it, including lengthy prison sentences, military tribunals, and in some cases, execution.

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