The Republic of Mali continues to grapple with a dual crisis—security threats and political turmoil—that shows no sign of abating. Armed groups, including jihadist and separatist factions, have intensified attacks across the country, most recently striking the capital, Bamako, in an assault that claimed the life of Defence Minister Sadio Camara on 25 April.

The crisis extends beyond security. Political instability has taken root as military leaders, who seized power in successive coups in 2020 and 2021, maintain an unchallenged grip on governance. The suspension of political party activities and restrictions on civic freedoms have further eroded democratic norms.

military operations and the collapse of peace agreements

In November 2023, Malian forces, backed by Russian paramilitary group Wagner, launched a military operation to reclaim Kidal—a city that had been under rebel control since 2012. This decisive move marked the definitive breakdown of the 2015 Algiers Peace Agreement, which had aimed to end hostilities between the government and northern separatist groups.

By 25 January 2024, the Malian government declared the Algiers Agreement “immediately null and void,” signaling the resumption of full-scale conflict. The vacuum left by the abandoned accord was swiftly exploited. On 25 April 2026, a coordinated offensive by the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) and the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) targeted multiple cities, including Bamako, and resulted in the recapture of Kidal.

expert insights into the path forward

This special broadcast examines the current state of Mali’s crisis and explores potential pathways to peace. Joining the conversation are Étienne Fakaba Sissoko of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Gilles Yabi of the West African Citizen Think Tank (WATHI), and sociologist Mohamed Abdellahi Elkhalil, who offer critical perspectives on the challenges ahead and the prospects for reconciliation.