Six years into Mali’s transitional period, a high-profile case involving alleged attempts to destabilize the government is back in the spotlight. On July 14, a criminal court in Bamako will hear arguments against six individuals accused of conspiring against state authorities. Among them are former allies of Bah N’Daw, the ousted transitional president, whose removal from power followed a second coup in May 2021.

Who stands accused?

The defendants include a mix of civilians and military personnel, each with notable roles during Mali’s turbulent transition. Colonel Kassoum Goïta, once head of the State Security Directorate, and Kalilou Doumbia, former Secretary-General of the Presidency, are the most prominent figures facing charges of attempted conspiracy against the government.

The group also comprises:

• An adjutant-chief from the State Security Directorate
• A police commissioner
• A prominent businessman
• A spiritual advisor (marabout)

None of the accused have accepted the charges, which remain vaguely defined by prosecutors. Their lawyers argue that the trial is politically motivated, targeting individuals simply for their past association with Bah N’Daw’s administration.

A protracted legal battle

Kalilou Doumbia and former Kayes police commissioner Moustapha Diakité were initially cleared of charges in June 2022. Yet, they remain detained. A higher court reversed the decision in January 2023, ordering all six to stand trial. Since then, multiple requests for provisional release have been denied.

The defense team insists their clients will vigorously contest the allegations during the upcoming hearing. They hope the proceedings will finally expose the lack of evidence and secure their innocence.

A stalled counter-complaint

In December 2021, the defense filed a complaint against General Modibo Koné, the current State Security Director, alleging misconduct during the arrests of the accused. No legal action has been taken on this claim to date.