The trial of former Malian Prime Minister Moussa Mara started at Bamako’s cybercrime court on September 29, 2025.
Mara faces charges of undermining state authority, opposing legal governance, and inciting unrest.
Charges Stem from Posts
The charges relate to Mara’s July 2025 social media statements after visiting jailed opposition leaders. On X, he called them “prisoners of conscience” and vowed to keep their hope alive. “No matter how dark it gets, light will come. We’ll fight for it,” he wrote.
Mara’s Background
Mara, who served as prime minister for nine months in 2014, has emerged as a vocal critic of Mali’s military regime. The junta, led by General Assimi Goita, seized power in coups in 2020 and 2021.
Junta’s Actions
Goita, named transitional president in 2021, promised elections by 2022 but canceled them. In May 2025, he dissolved all political parties after rare protests. In July, he passed a law granting himself a renewable five-year presidency without elections.
Why It Matters
Mara’s trial highlights tensions between Mali’s junta and critics. His case tests freedom of expression under military rule, drawing attention to political detentions.
What’s Next
The trial’s outcome could shape Mali’s political landscape, signaling how far the junta will go to silence dissent in 2025.
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