On May 27, 2026, General Assimi Goïta, the President of the Malian Transition, delivered a significant political address from Koulouba. Following the Eid al-Kebir prayers held at the presidential palace in Bamako, President Goïta publicly declared an expanded understanding of terrorism, now encompassing media narratives, economic sanctions, political maneuvering, state-level actions, and international influences. This pivotal declaration was made before key figures, including the Prime Minister, the President of the National Transitional Council, government members, and accredited diplomats present in Mali.
A unique prayer setting
This year, the solemn Eid prayer deviated from its customary location. Due to prevailing security concerns within Bamako, the traditional venue, the Grand Mosque of Bagadadji, was bypassed. Instead, the Koulouba banquet hall was thoughtfully converted into a prayer space for the occasion. Imam Mahmoud Touré, affiliated with the presidential palace mosque, led the service, offering heartfelt prayers for Mali’s enduring peace and stability.
Goïta’s multi-faceted address
In his post-prayer remarks to the press, President Goïta characterized Mali as a target of what he termed “multiform terrorisms.” He asserted that the pressures confronting the West African nation are no longer confined to military engagements but now extend to narratives propagated by various media outlets, economic leverage, and external political interference. He firmly stated, « Tous les acharnements à travers des récits manipulés ne sauraient ébranler la volonté du peuple malien pour la paix et la souveraineté », emphasizing that all relentless efforts through manipulated narratives would not shake the Malian people’s resolve for peace and sovereignty.
The head of state urged all Malians to rally behind the Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) and their partners, confirming that military operations would persist until the nation achieves « pacification complète du pays » or complete pacification. He also reiterated the unwavering commitment to the national refoundation project, known as Mali Kura, a cornerstone of current African politics within the country.
Following a recent offensive
This pivotal address comes approximately one month after a coordinated offensive launched by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM) and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). This joint operation targeted several Malian positions on April 25, 2026, tragically resulting in the death of Defense Minister Sadio Camara. Since this event, transitional authorities have intensified calls for national unity and cohesion across Mali. Concurrently, FAMA and the African Corps continue their aerial and ground operations across the Ségou, Kidal, and Ménaka regions, a significant focus in recent Africa news English reports regarding security in West Africa.
