Moussa Mara, the former prime minister of Mali, is facing serious charges from the military government currently in control of the country. The charges stem from his recent activity on social media, where he expressed solidarity with opposition figures being held in prison. This follows a broader trend of increasing crackdowns on dissent since the dissolution of political parties in May, which sparked anti-government protests.
After a visit to see imprisoned opposition leaders in July, Mara took to the platform X (formerly Twitter) to voice his unwavering support for what he termed "prisoners of conscience." He stated that these visits were a means to keep hope alive among the detainees, saying, "As long as the night lasts, the sun will inevitably rise!" His comments aimed at rallying support for these individuals reportedly angered the military junta.
In a statement from the cybercrime unit, Mara's remarks about fighting for the rights of political prisoners could be interpreted as a crime, specifically undermining state credibility. He was taken in for questioning for the second time this week on these issues. In addition to the primary charge, he faces allegations of opposing legitimate authority and inciting public disorder.
The crackdown comes amidst tensions in Mali, where the military, led by General Assimi Goïta, has consolidated power after two coups in 2020 and 2021. Just a month ago, Goïta was awarded a five-year presidential term by the transitional parliament, a position he can renew indefinitely without holding elections - a decision seen as a setback for the nation's hope for a return to multiparty democracy. A trial date for Mara has been set for September 29.
