Mali independence day: opposition leader Fakaba Sissoko demands accountability from leaders
As Mali celebrates its Independence Day on September 22, transitional president General Assimi Goïta delivered a televised address on September 21, commending the country’s economic progress, vowing to intensify efforts against armed terrorist groups, and advocating for national reconciliation.
General Goïta, who seized power over six years ago without elections—with support from Russia’s Africa Corps—also emphasized Mali’s ongoing pursuit of sovereignty within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
“Malians demand tangible results”
Not all share the junta’s optimism. Critics of the transitional government, particularly those silenced within Mali, remain vocal from abroad. Among them is Etienne Fakaba Sissoko, an academic turned opposition figure, serving as spokesperson for the Coalition of Forces for the Republic (CFR), led by Imam Dicko. The coalition unites exiled Malian opponents from political and civil society circles.
Speaking to David Baché, Sissoko expressed disappointment in General Goïta’s address: “While we deeply love Mali and support our soldiers in defending our sovereignty, we must also hold those in power accountable. Malians are waiting for results—safe travel, employment, electricity, freedom, and a clear political future. Associating Independence Day with the transitional government’s achievements is regrettable.”
He further criticized the government’s omission of Russian military involvement: “The absence of any mention of Russia or the Russian military’s performance in his speech speaks volumes. The recent attack on Dioura camp—linked to the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM, affiliated with al-Qaeda)—resulted in over a hundred Malian soldiers killed and dozens captured. This partnership’s failure is evident.”
“The country has never been more devastated”
Sissoko concluded with a stark assessment: “Today, Mali is a nation in mourning. The state of decay has reached unprecedented levels in our political history. I cannot celebrate Independence Day with joy. The situation dishonors the regime that governs us.”
