Un experts warn Mali against restricting political parties

United Nations human rights experts have strongly criticized a recent move by Mali’s government that threatens to undermine political freedoms. In a joint statement, they condemned both the adoption of a draft law abolishing key protections for political participation and the signing of a decree suspending all party activities indefinitely.

Human rights violations and political restrictions

According to the experts, these actions directly violate Mali’s obligations under international human rights law, particularly regarding freedoms of association and expression. The decree, they argue, must be revoked immediately to prevent further erosion of democratic principles.

flaws in government’s proposed reforms

The government has defended its actions by claiming they aim to reduce the proliferation of political parties. However, the UN experts argue that such goals are better achieved through legitimate electoral rules—such as requiring parties to demonstrate past electoral success—rather than imposing hefty financial deposits that restrict participation to wealthy elites.

The proposed law, they warn, would impose excessive financial burdens on parties seeking registration or candidacy, effectively limiting political engagement to those with significant economic resources. This approach undermines the principle of inclusive political participation that Mali has pledged to uphold.

lack of genuine consultation

The government has cited the 2021 Assises Nationales de la Refondation and April 2025 consultations on the Political Parties Charter as the basis for its reforms. However, the experts highlight that these consultations lack credibility in the current climate of shrinking civic space. Journalists and opposition figures face risks of retaliation for expressing dissent, making open dialogue impossible.

In April 2025, several political parties boycotted the consultations, fearing the process was merely a pretext to dissolve parties or ban their activities. The government’s decision to consider recommendations—such as extending the current transitional leader’s term by five years without elections—further signals a disregard for democratic norms, the experts noted.

call for the council to reject the draft law

The draft law is now under review by Mali’s transitional national council, led by General Malick Diaw. The UN experts urge the council to reject the legislation outright, warning that its approval would place Mali in direct violation of its international commitments.

Instead, they offer to assist the government in revising the draft to ensure alignment with global human rights standards. Failure to do so, they warn, could provoke further unrest, as political parties have already announced plans for public demonstrations on May 3 and 4, with additional protests scheduled for May 9.

protecting the right to peaceful assembly

The experts emphasize that the right to peaceful assembly is fundamental to a vibrant democracy. They call on Mali’s transitional authorities to uphold this right, warning against intimidation or repression that could endanger the safety of protesters. Reports indicate that alleged supporters of the transitional government have already disrupted opposition gatherings, raising concerns about escalating tensions.

By silencing dissent and restricting political freedoms, the experts warn, Mali risks deepening its political crisis rather than resolving it.