Mali: Members of the Inter-Malian Dialogue Steering Committee take up their duties

Following the termination of the Algiers Agreement, Malian transitional President Assimi Goïta has taken a decisive step by establishing a steering committee for inter-Malian dialogue.

Instituted through decree n°2024-0053/PT-RM on January 26, 2024, the steering committee for inter-Malian dialogue for peace and national reconciliation comprises 140 members representing diverse socio-professional strata within the nation.

To inaugurate this pivotal process, one aimed at restoring peace and reviving the legendary fraternity among all sons and daughters of Mali, President Assimi Goïta officially installed committee members on Monday, February 5, 2024, in Kolouba.

The committee’s mandate is clear: to succeed where past dialogue initiatives have faltered since Mali’s independence in 1960.

Frequently, the involvement of external mediators or mediation processes conducted abroad has contributed to these historical shortcomings.

President Assimi Goïta remains optimistic, urging committee members to prioritize three key principles now guiding public action in Mali: respect for Mali’s sovereignty, adherence to strategic choices and partnerships made by Mali, and a steadfast defense of the interests of the Malian people in all decisions.

The President of the Steering Committee for Inter-Malian Dialogue, Ousmane Issoufi Maïga, has, on behalf of his team, pledged to see the initiative through to success.

The Algiers Agreement of 2015, the most recent attempt at dialogue, has, after years of efforts and investments, proven insufficient in bringing lasting peace and stability to Mali.

For some stakeholders, it became an exploitable business opportunity, prolonging the suffering of the Malian population.

In response to this realization, Malian authorities have decisively opted for a new approach by concluding the Algiers Agreement, signaling a fresh start in their pursuit of genuine peace and national reconciliation.

Cedric KABORE