Mali's Prime Minister, General Abdoulaye Maiga, sharply criticised France and Algeria on Tuesday (11 November) for allegedly supporting terrorist groups operating in the Sahel region. His comments came during the opening of the Bamako Military Exhibition (BAMEX).

He addressed an audience of military officials and defence representatives, including Russia’s Deputy Minister of Defence Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, Niger’s Secretary General of the Ministry of Defence General Sani Katche, and Burkina Faso’s Minister of Defence General Celestin Simpore.

At the event, which showcased various weapons systems, drones, rockets, and firearms, Maiga accused the French and Algerian governments of supporting the terrorist groups, destabilising the region.

"Today, those on the side of the terrorist groups operating in our region are the French junta and the Algerian junta," he said, referring to both countries’ alleged involvement in Mali’s ongoing security crisis.

Maiga's remarks come amid the growing tensions between Mali and its former colonial power, France, following Mali’s pivot towards Russia in recent years.

After a military coup in 2021, Mali distanced itself from France, with which it had longstanding military and political ties. Instead, Mali sought closer cooperation with Russia, a move reflected by the presence of Russian defence officials at the BAMEX exhibition.

Paying Tribute to Mariam Cissé

In his speech, Maiga also paid tribute to Mariam Cissé, a Mali national who he said was murdered by terrorist groups simply for expressing her support for Mali and its army.

"This occasion is both a fitting and sorrowful one for us, as we take a moment to remember Miss Mariam Cissé, who was cowardly murdered by terrorist groups," Maiga said.

"May Allah welcome her into paradise, and may Allah also grant paradise to all victims of insecurity and terrorism."

Cissé’s death highlighted the deadly environment faced by many Malians as terrorist organizations, such as al-Qaeda and ISIS, continue to terrorise the region.

Mali’s Resolve and Resilience

The Prime Minister went on to reject predictions of Mali’s collapse, calling for national solidarity and resilience in the face of adversity.

"Some detractors hoped to see Mali collapse. They wanted to see the Malian people on their knees, divided, and weakened," Maiga declared.

"But instead of giving in to despair, Malians are showing exemplary solidarity, remarkable patience, and unwavering determination. Mali will not fall, Mali will not sink, because Mali is, above all, its people and its ideals."

BAMEX Exhibition

The BAMEX exhibition was an important event for Mali, as it sought to showcase military innovations and foster international cooperation with countries such as Russia and Burkina Faso. The exhibition featured a wide range of military equipment, from guns and rockets to drones and armoured vehicles. The event allowed police and military personnel to inspect the various weapons systems on display.

Mali, along with Niger and Burkina Faso, have all experienced military coups in recent years, leading them to pivot away from France and toward Russia for defence and security cooperation.

The participation of Russia and other African nations at BAMEX further underscores the shifting dynamics in the region as these countries seek alternatives to their former colonial powers.

Growing Tensions in the Sahel

The ongoing conflict in the Sahel has brought increasing instability to countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These nations are facing threats from terrorist groups that have exploited weak governance and regional tensions to establish footholds. The situation has been compounded by the withdrawal of international forces and the waning influence of traditional partners such as France.

As the Sahel struggles to deal with terrorism, military coups, and regional conflicts, the international community’s role remains uncertain. However, the shift in alliances, especially Mali’s turn to Russia, marks a new chapter in the geopolitical landscape of West Africa. While Mali has vowed to remain strong and united, the long-term security and stability of the region remain in question.

The BAMEX exhibition and Maiga’s speech serve as a reminder of the complex and evolving dynamics in the Sahel. With increasing tensions between Mali, France, and Algeria, and a growing reliance on Russian support, the future of the region will depend on the ability of these countries to balance their national interests with broader regional security needs. Mali’s resolve to maintain its sovereignty and ideals, as articulated by Prime Minister Maiga, will likely continue to shape the country’s trajectory in the years to come.

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