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Mali’s military rulers have faced a severe security crisis since Sunday, after coordinated nationwide attacks by terrorists and separatist rebels killed the defence minister Sadio Camara and reportedly left a key northern town in the hands of rebels.
There was no word from junta leader General Assimi Goita, who has not been seen since the attacks began at dawn on Saturday, April 25. A Malian security source told AFP he was in a safe place.
The offensive, coordinated by Tuareg rebels of the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) and the terrorists Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), targeted several areas. Analysts called it the most serious challenge since the 2012 offensive repelled by French forces.
Recall that Camara died after a car bomb attack on his home in the junta stronghold of Kati, outside Bamako. A government statement said Camara died while fighting attackers, “some of whom he succeeded in neutralising.” He would receive a “national funeral.”
Tuareg rebels told AFP they had reached an agreement allowing Russian Africa Corps forces to withdraw from the northern city of Kidal, which they claimed was “totally” under their control. “Fighters from armed movements have now taken over the streets,” a resident said.
In Bamako, troops blocked access to military facilities. The opposition warned that Mali was “in danger.”
UN chief Antonio Guterres condemned the “acts of violence” and called for international support. The European Union also condemned the “terrorist attacks.” Fighting continued Sunday in several areas, including Kati, Kidal, Gao, and Sevare.
