BAMAKO, Nov 20 - Mali's Prime Minister Choguel Maiga has been dismissed, as reported by state television ORTM. This decision follows Maiga's criticism of the ruling junta's failure to organize elections within the promised 24-month transition back to democracy.
The military junta, which came to power through coups in 2020 and 2021, had initially scheduled elections for February but has since postponed them indefinitely, citing technical reasons.
Maiga publicly expressed concern over the lack of governmental debate regarding the election postponement, stating he learned about the junta's decision through media reports. His remarks heightened tensions with the military leaders, leading to the postponement of a planned ministerial council meeting.
Despite the criticisms directed at the junta, particularly regarding its collaboration with Russian mercenaries and ongoing election delays, Maiga had previously defended the military's actions. Under current law, his successor will need to form a new government in consultation with interim President Assimi Goïta.
Prior to his appointment as prime minister in 2021, Maiga held positions as Mali's commerce minister and digital economy minister under previous administrations. He was also a prominent figure in the M5-RFP opposition coalition that led protests resulting in the ousting of former President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.