Tensions Rise in Mali as Soldiers Arrested Over Alleged Coup Attempt

Reports indicate that dozens of soldiers in Mali have been arrested for allegedly planning a coup against the ruling military government. This wave of arrests underscores increasing unrest within the military as the junta grapples with a persistent jihadist insurgency. Notable figures, including two generals, were rumored to be among the detained, but confirmation remains murky.

Dozens of soldiers in Mali are reportedly arrested amid allegations of a coup plot against the country's military leadership. Sources indicate that this crackdown has intensified overnight and will likely continue, underlining rising tensions within the junta. There are concerns as the northern regions of Mali experience a resurgence of a jihadist insurgency, adding complexity to the evolving political landscape.

Initial reports suggested that Gen Abass Dembele, a former governor, and Gen Nema Sagara, one of the few high-ranking women in the military, were among those detained. However, a close associate of Gen Dembele refuted these claims, stating that both are unharmed and safe. Meanwhile, the AFP news agency cited multiple military sources, asserting that about "50 soldiers" were apprehended for purportedly plotting to overpower the junta.

A lawmaker in Mali's National Transition Council reported that the arrests had been ongoing for several days, linking the detentions to supposed attempts to destabilize the current governance structure. This surge of arrests coincides with increased political unrest as the junta has been cracking down on former prime ministers accused of damaging state credibility and facing allegations of embezzlement.

Moussa Mara, a vocal critic of the junta, has been in custody since early August, while Choguel Maiga faces judicial challenges. The military government had previously dissolved all political parties following rare protests, which Mara labeled a significant setback to reconciliation attempts initiated last year.

The junta, led by Gen Asimi Goïta, has been in power following successive coups in 2020 and 2021, pledging to hold elections—an undertaking that has yet to materialize. In July, the junta extended its transitional governance period by five years, securing its leadership role until 2030.

Additionally, Mali has been battling an Islamist insurgency since 2012. While the military took control citing insecurity as a primary motivation, jihadist activities continue to escalate, prompting collaboration with Russian allies for regional stability following a deterioration of ties with France, though this partnership has not yielded notable improvements in security for the troubled nation.