Hamma Ag Mahmoud served as Mali’s Labour and Civil Service Minister from 1986 to 1988 under military ruler General Moussa Traoré, later overseeing key regions including Sikasso, Koulikoro, Ségou, Gao and Tombouctou. In 2012, he joined the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) during the independence uprising and played a pivotal role in brokering the 2015 peace accord with Bamako.

Political class ‘has failed’

Exiled in Mauritania since 2011, Ag Mahmoud has now publicly endorsed the Coalition of Republican Forces (CFR). «We are living through a moment of crisis, with the country fragmenting at its seams», he told a correspondent. «The time has come for all Malians to rally behind a shared vision that unites every community. The CFR has taken the initiative; I believe all Malians should join to organise a national conference that corrects past mistakes.»

«The failure of Mali’s political class explains why rebellions and jihadist groups have taken root», he asserted. «Citizens deserve a political project that truly represents them.»

Yet many Malians remain fearful of engaging in talks with jihadist factions like the JNIM—tied to al-Qaeda—or risking further territorial division. «Involving them in a unified project would put an end to the turmoil», he contended. «Restore good governance, and there will be no more jihadists, no more rebellions.»

Sharia vs. the Republic

Over recent months, JNIM has recast its narrative to position itself as a political player in Mali. While the group now champions «sovereignty» and claims to defend local populations, its core objective remains unchanged: enforcing its strict interpretation of Sharia. Can dialogue with such an actor be reconciled within a republican framework?

«Absolutely», Ag Mahmoud asserted. «All democratic principles—equality, justice—must be upheld by including every Malian.»