Mali: former minister joins imam Dicko’s coalition amid political crisis

Hamma Ag Mahmoud, a prominent Malian figure and former government official, has announced his formal alignment with the Coalition des forces pour la République (CFR), led by influential imam Mahmoud Dicko. The move comes at a critical juncture for Mali, as the nation grapples with deepening instability and political fragmentation.

Hamma Ag Mahmoud’s political journey spans decades. Between 1986 and 1988, he served as Minister of Labor and Civil Service under Mali’s military regime led by General Moussa Traoré. His career also included leadership roles as a regional prefect in key cities such as Sikasso, Koulikoro, Ségou, Gao, and Tombouctou. A turning point came in 2012 when he joined the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) during the Tuareg rebellion, where he played a pivotal role in negotiating the 2015 peace agreement with the Malian government.

From exile to renewed activism

Since relocating to Mauritania in 2011, Hamma Ag Mahmoud has maintained a low profile, but his recent decision to join the CFR signals a resurgence in his public engagement. The coalition, spearheaded by imam Dicko, has emerged as a vocal advocate for national unity and systemic reform in Mali.

A call for collective mobilization

Speaking about Mali’s current turmoil, Hamma Ag Mahmoud emphasized the urgent need for a unified national project. «We are in a period of crisis, with the country unraveling at the seams», he stated. «The CFR has taken the initiative; now, all Malians must rally behind it to organize a national conference that rectifies past mistakes.»

He went further, asserting that the failures of Mali’s political class have fueled rebellions and extremism. «Every rebellion and jihadist presence in Mali stems from political failure», he argued. «The people deserve a political vision that includes everyone.»

Dialogue with armed groups: a pragmatic approach?

One of the most contentious aspects of the CFR’s platform is its willingness to engage in dialogue with armed factions, including the Jnim, an al-Qaeda-linked group operating in Mali. While many Malians view such negotiations with skepticism, Hamma Ag Mahmoud remains optimistic. «If we integrate these groups into a shared project, we can end the cycle of violence», he explained. «Restoring good governance will eliminate the conditions that breed jihadists and rebellions.»

The Jnim’s evolving rhetoric has positioned the group as a defender of sovereignty and local communities, though its ultimate goal—imposing Sharia law—remains unchanged. Hamma Ag Mahmoud believes negotiations are possible within a republican framework. «All democratic principles—equality, justice—must be applied inclusively», he asserted.

The path forward

As Mali faces mounting challenges, Hamma Ag Mahmoud’s decision to join the CFR underscores a broader push for political renewal. Whether this coalition can unite a divided nation remains uncertain, but his involvement adds momentum to a movement demanding accountability and reform.