The Malian military junta has accused French intelligence of orchestrating a coup attempt against the current transitional government. A senior junta official claimed the French intelligence service mobilized political leaders, civil society actors, and military personnel to instigate the plot, according to a statement released by the junta. The junta said it had foiled an attempted coup, organized by French intelligence.
Lt. Col. Assimi Goita, the leader of Mali’s ruling junta and ‘transitional president,’ is the central figure in this accusation. He has been a key player in Mali’s political landscape since the coup that overthrew the democratically elected government in 2020. The junta claims that the French intelligence service sought to undermine the stability of the country’s government by manipulating key figures within the military and civilian sectors. While the junta’s claims have not been independently verified, they have been echoed by some political figures and military officials within Mali. The accusations come at a tense time, with the country already grappling with ongoing security challenges, including insurgency and terrorism.
The alleged coup plot is part of a broader geopolitical tension between Mali and its former colonial power, France. The relationship has been strained since the 2020 coup, which led to a deterioration in diplomatic ties. France has been accused of interfering in Mali’s internal affairs, which has fueled resentment among some political and military circles. The junta’s allegations could further escalate the already volatile situation, as both sides may be inclined to take more aggressive stances. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, as developments in Mali could have wider implications for regional stability and security.