Last week in Mali, a series of simultaneous attacks on strategic army positions in several cities, including the capital Bamako, shook the ruling junta. The number 2 of the regime, Defense Minister Sadio Camara, was killed in Kati while the symbolic city of Kidal in the north fell into the hands of the rebels. A setback for the junta and Russian paramilitaries forced to retreat.
Attacks jointly carried out by the Jnim (Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims, affiliated with al-Qaeda) and the FLA, the Azawad Liberation Front, in this vast northern Mali area where Tuareg separatists have been demanding independence for decades. On Tuesday, February 28, after three days of silence, junta leader Assimi Goita called for a national response and declared the situation under control, but the rebels continue to advance: they took over the strategic military camp of Tessalit in the north yesterday.
What are the Jnim and FLA seeking? Do they have the same objectives or are they opportunistic allies? Can the junta, which controls barely 30% of the territory, remain in power after failing, with its Russian partners, to restore peace and state authority throughout the country? In case of collapse of the military regime, should we fear a domino effect in the Sahel? What role is Algeria playing behind the scenes?
– Context: The article discusses recent military attacks by rebel groups in Mali and examines the impact on the ruling junta’s authority. – Fact Check: Review the accuracy of the information regarding the rebel groups and the current situation in Mali.
