International human rights advocates are urging authorities in Mali to reverse recent measures that threaten political pluralism in the country. A coalition of independent UN experts has condemned both the adoption of a draft law undermining fundamental political freedoms and the executive decree suspending all party activities indefinitely.
In a strongly worded statement, the specialists emphasized that these actions directly contravene Mali’s obligations under international human rights law, particularly regarding freedom of association and political participation.
Legal changes spark concern
The draft legislation, approved by the Council of Ministers on April 30, proposes sweeping reforms that experts argue would severely restrict democratic engagement. Among the most troubling provisions is the requirement for political parties to make substantial financial deposits to register candidates, effectively excluding smaller organizations with limited resources from participating in elections.
The UN team pointed out that legitimate electoral reforms should focus on establishing fair registration criteria, such as requiring parties to demonstrate previous electoral support, rather than imposing prohibitive financial barriers. They noted that the current approach appears designed to consolidate power rather than strengthen democratic processes.
Consultations marred by repression
The experts also criticized the government’s claim that these reforms emerged from genuine national consultations, citing the National Refoundation Conference of 2021 and the Political Party Charter revision talks held in April 2025. They highlighted that meaningful dialogue has become virtually impossible in an environment where civil society faces severe restrictions, journalists operate under fear of reprisal, and opposition figures risk persecution for expressing dissent.
Several political parties withdrew from the April consultations, rightly fearing the process might be exploited to dissolve opposition groups or silence political activity. The Council of Ministers’ subsequent endorsement of additional recommendations—including extending the current transitional leader’s mandate without elections for another five years—further demonstrates what the experts describe as a blatant disregard for both national and international commitments.
Call to protect democratic freedoms
The draft law is now slated for review by the National Transitional Council, chaired by General Malick Diaw. The UN specialists have urgently called on this body to reject the legislation entirely, warning that its approval would entrench Mali’s deviation from human rights norms.
« The right to peaceful assembly and political expression forms the bedrock of any functional democracy, » the experts stated. « Authorities must uphold these rights scrupulously and refrain from intimidation tactics that endanger citizens’ safety and fundamental freedoms. »
In response to the government’s actions, opposition parties have announced plans for public demonstrations on May 3 and 4, followed by additional gatherings on May 9. Reports indicate that some pro-government groups have already disrupted these events through violence, raising further alarms about the escalating suppression of dissent.
The UN delegation includes Eduardo Gonzalez, Special Rapporteur on human rights in Mali; Irene Khan, Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression; and Gina Romero, Special Rapporteur on the rights to peaceful assembly and association. They operate independently under the UN Human Rights Council’s Special Procedures, which monitor compliance with international law without receiving compensation or government affiliation.
