Mali’s former civilian Prime Minister, Choguel Kokalla Maiga, who was dismissed in November 2024 after criticizing the ruling military junta, has been formally charged with embezzlement of public funds. He was remanded in custody on Tuesday following a hearing at the country’s Supreme Court.
Maiga’s lawyer, Cheick Oumar Konaré, confirmed the charges and said no date has been set for the trial. “We believe in justice and remain calm while awaiting the trial,” Konaré said, adding that Maiga will stay in prison until then.
In addition to Maiga, eight of his former colleagues have also been detained in connection with the case. His former chief of staff has been released pending trial.
A judicial source told AFP that Maiga is accused of misusing public funds, damaging public property, and using forged documents.
Maiga was arrested a week ago, shortly after the junta conducted a wave of arrests to suppress an alleged coup plot within the military.
According to his lawyer, Maiga remains composed, stating that “a politician must be prepared for anything — including prison or death.”
Tightening Grip on Power
Maiga was appointed Prime Minister after the second military coup in 2021. His dismissal in November 2024 came shortly after he publicly criticized the junta for failing to clarify when it would return power to civilian rule. His removal signaled a tightening of military control, especially after the junta missed its own deadline to hand over power by March 2024.
He was replaced by General Abdoulaye Maiga, the former government spokesman.
Mali’s Deepening Crisis
Mali has been ruled by the military since two coups in 2020 and 2021. The country continues to face a worsening security crisis fueled by jihadist violence, separatist movements, and criminal gangs.
Under military leader President Assimi Goïta, the junta has distanced itself from Western allies, particularly France, and instead strengthened ties with Russia. Both the Malian army and its Russian partners have been accused of committing abuses against civilians.
The junta has also cracked down on dissent. In July, a military-backed legislative body passed a controversial law granting President Goïta a renewable five-year presidential mandate — with no requirement for elections.