Armed individuals stormed several polling stations in Mali on Sunday as the military establishment holds a referendum on a new constitution, a move they claim is a step towards new elections.
One of the voting centers invaded by armed men was in Tagouna, located 80 kilometers from the city of Kolikoro in the western part of the African nation. The armed group seized the polling equipment and set it on fire. Similar incidents were reported in three other regions – Kouloumena, Gigi, and Sebougou in the Nara region, according to the “Azawad News Center” Twitter page.
Malian voters cast their votes on Sunday in a referendum to change the constitution. The ruling military council and regional powers have stated this would pave the way for elections and a return to civilian rule. The military council, which seized power in coups in 2020 and 2021, had promised to hold the referendum as part of a democratic transition process, under pressure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
However, some of the changes included in the drafted constitution, designed by a committee tasked with its preparation, have caused divisions. Supporters argue they will strengthen fragile political institutions, while opponents claim they will grant the president more power.
Despite this, regional bodies and the United Nations see the referendum itself as a crucial test of the military council’s readiness to commit to the transitional path and conduct a nationwide democratic process, especially at a time when extremists are intensifying their attacks.
Interim President Assimi Goita, in a speech broadcasted on television on Friday, said, “With this project, we are betting on the future of our state and the restoration of its authority and rebuilding trust between the institutions and citizens.”
The draft constitution includes amendments proposed in the context of previous unsuccessful efforts to revise the constitution. Supporters hope these amendments will enhance democracy and address divisions, including the creation of a second parliamentary chamber to enhance representation from all across Mali.
However, some opposition parties, including pro-democracy groups and promoters of a “No” vote campaign, argue that undemocratically elected authorities, like the military council, should not oversee such a major constitutional amendment.
The initial results of the referendum are expected to emerge within 72 hours of voting, and presidential elections are scheduled for February 2024.
