Malian voters overwhelmingly approve changes to constitution

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
23 Jun 2023 22:12

Constitutional revisions were approved marking a milestone in the ruling junta's claimed aspirations to restore civilian rule.

Leader of Mali's ruling junta Lt. Col. Assimi Goita, center, attends an independence day military parade in Bamako, Mali on Sept. 22, 2022 (AP)

Malians unanimously endorsed constitutional revisions in a referendum on Friday, marking a critical milestone in the ruling junta's claimed aspirations to restore civilian rule.

The military has made the draught constitution a critical cornerstone for rebuilding Mali, which is dealing with the growth of insurgencies and a severe multi-faceted problem.

The electoral administration reported that 97% of referendum votes were cast in favor of the proposals, with voter turnout at 39.4%.

Voting concluded in Mali on Sunday on a new constitution in the ruling junta's first electoral test, with insecurity and political disagreement hindering voting in some areas.

The new constitution would expand the power of the president, raising hopes that junta leader Colonel Assimi Goita may run for the position of president.

Goita has not made it clear if he wants to run for the presidency. The country is expected to vote for a president next February.

The revisions will also elevate the military and underline "sovereignty"; the ruling junta's motto since taking power in 2020.

Voting was impeded in several places in the country's centered north, either due to fear of insurgency threats or political differences.