Ex-Mali Prime Minister Faces Charges for Social Media Comments

Moussa Mara, a former prime minister of Mali, faces serious charges from the military government for his social media activities that include expressing solidarity with detained opposition figures. His trial is set for September 29th, amidst ongoing tensions in the nation's political landscape.

A former prime minister of Mali, currently under the authority of a military junta, has been charged with undermining the state’s credibility due to comments he made on social media. Moussa Mara recently visited opposition leaders imprisoned in July and publicly voiced his "unwavering solidarity with prisoners of conscience" via his account on X.

Having served as prime minister for nine months over a decade ago, Mara has positioned himself as a vocal critic of the military regime that has held power since a series of coups in 2020 and 2021. The junta made headlines in May when they dissolved all political parties following rare protests against the government.

On Thursday, Mara was summoned for questioning by the national cybercrime unit, which was focused on his post dated July 4. In that communication, he assured that his regular visits to the detained prisoners were meant to sustain their hope. He concluded his message with a determined statement about fighting to improve their situation, insisting, "As long as the night lasts, the sun will inevitably rise!"

The cybercrime unit prosecutor emphasized that Mara's references to "prisoners of conscience" and his call to fight for their rights were offenses under current law. In addition to the charges of undermining state credibility, Mara faces accusations of opposing legitimate authority and inciting public disorder. His case is scheduled to be heard in court on September 29.

Meanwhile, the military leader, General Assimi Goïta, recently secured a renewable five-year presidential term from the transitional parliament despite earlier commitments to hold elections. The general, who has led the nation following two coups, is central to ongoing efforts to suppress dissent and maintain control in Mali.