The UN experts emphasized that Mali’s suspension of political party activities through a newly signed decree must be revoked immediately. They also warned that the proposed legislation, adopted by the Council of Ministers on April 30, risks placing Mali in breach of its human rights commitments, particularly regarding freedoms of association and expression.

The Malian government has defended its actions, claiming that the repeal of existing laws does not threaten the existence of political parties but aims to « curb the proliferation of parties » in the country. However, the UN experts argued that regulating party proliferation is better achieved through legitimate electoral rules, such as requiring parties to demonstrate prior electoral performance for registration.

Flawed consultation process

Instead, the new law imposes heavy financial deposits as a prerequisite for party registration and candidate participation, effectively restricting political participation to wealthy elites. The experts also highlighted that the government’s claim of basing these reforms on national dialogues—such as the 2021 National Refoundation Assizes and the April 2025 Political Party Charter consultations—lacks credibility. In the current climate of suppressed civic space, where dissenting voices and independent journalists face repression, genuine public consultation is impossible.

Several political parties boycotted the April 2025 consultations, fearing that the transitional authorities would use the process to dissolve parties or ban their activities. The Council of Ministers also endorsed additional recommendations, including the extension of the current head of state, General Assimi Goita, as president for five years without elections—a move the experts say contradicts Mali’s national and international obligations.

Call to reject the proposed law

The draft law is now set to be presented to the National Transitional Council, led by General Malick Diaw, for approval. The UN experts have urged the Council to reject the legislation, offering assistance to revise it in line with international human rights standards.

Political parties have planned protests for May 3 and 4, but claim that pro-government groups disrupted their gatherings. Additional public rallies have been called for May 9. The experts stressed that peaceful assembly is vital for a vibrant democracy and urged Malian authorities to uphold this right without intimidation or repression.