Former malian minister joins imam dicko’s coalition amid national crisis
Former Malian minister Hamma Ag Mahmoud joins Imam Dicko’s coalition
Hamma Ag Mahmoud served as Mali’s Minister of Labor and Public Service from 1986 to 1988 under the military regime of General Moussa Traoré. He later held prefect positions across several Malian regions, including Sikasso, Koulikoro, Ségou, Gao, and Tombouctou. In 2012, he joined the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) during the Tuareg rebellion, playing a key role in negotiating the 2015 peace agreement with the Malian government.
“Political class has failed”
Since relocating to Mauritania in 2011, Hamma Ag Mahmoud has now formally aligned with the Coalition of Forces for the Republic (CFR). “We are in a period of crisis, with the country crumbling apart,” he stated in an exclusive interview. “Malians must unite around a shared societal vision where everyone finds their place. The CFR has taken the lead, and I believe all Malians should join to organize a national conference that corrects past mistakes.”
He continued, “The rise of rebellions and Islamist groups in Mali stems from the political class’s failure. Malians need a unifying political project that includes everyone.”
He acknowledged public skepticism toward engaging with jihadist groups like the Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), linked to al-Qaeda, and concerns about potential territorial fragmentation. “Including them in a shared project could end this cycle,” he argued. “Restoring good governance would eliminate jihadists and separatist rebellions entirely.”
Sharia vs. Republican Values
Over recent months, JNIM has adjusted its rhetoric to position itself as a political actor within Mali. While the group now claims to uphold “sovereignty” and defend local populations, its core objective remains unchanged: imposing its interpretation of Sharia law. Is negotiating with such an entity compatible with republican principles?
“Absolutely,” insists the former civil administrator. “All democratic principles—equality, justice—must be applied by including all Malians.”