Mali’s military government has appointed Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga, the current government spokesman and territorial administration minister, as acting prime minister, state television reported Wednesday, following the extended absence of incumbent Choguel Maiga.
The appointment comes amid reports in Paris-based Jeune Afrique magazine that Choguel Maiga had suffered a stroke, citing sources close to the leader. While his advisers denied these claims when contacted by Reuters, and his office had promised his return to duties within a week, he has yet to resume his responsibilities.
Colonel Maiga, the new acting premier, has gained prominence as a vocal critic of Western involvement in Mali, notably delivering sharp rebukes to former colonial power France. In July, he accused French President Emmanuel Macron of maintaining a “neocolonial” and “condescending” attitude toward Mali.
The leadership change occurs as Mali’s military junta, which seized power in a 2020 coup, faces international pressure over its cooperation with Russian mercenaries and delayed promises of democratic elections, now scheduled for 2024. Choguel Maiga had been a prominent defender of the junta’s policies during diplomatic disputes with regional neighbors and international allies.
The appointment maintains the military’s firm grip on Mali’s government, as the country navigates complex relationships with Western powers and regional organizations while promising a return to civilian rule.
