General Assimi Goïta, President of the Malian Transition, delivered a significant political address on May 27, 2026, from Koulouba. This declaration followed the observance of Eid al-Kebir prayers, which took place at the presidential palace in Bamako. Addressing a distinguished audience that included the Prime Minister, the President of the National Transitional Council, various government officials, and foreign diplomats accredited to Mali, General Goïta publicly broadened the scope of what constitutes terrorism to encompass media narratives, economic pressures, political maneuvering, and international state-level actions.

unusual setting for eid prayers

This year, the solemn Eid prayers deviated from their traditional venue at the Grand Mosque of Bagadadji, a customary site for official Eid ceremonies. This change was implemented due to prevailing security concerns within Bamako. Instead, the banquet hall at Koulouba was specially prepared to host the prayers. Imam Mahmoud Touré, affiliated with the presidential palace mosque, presided over the ceremony, offering prayers for enduring peace and stability across Mali.

a comprehensive address on multiple fronts

Following the prayers, President Goïta addressed the press, characterizing Mali as a target of what he termed «multidimensional terrorism.» He elaborated that the pressures confronting the nation are no longer confined to military engagements but now encompass narratives propagated by the media, economic leverage, and external political interference. «No amount of relentless effort through manipulated narratives will ever shake the Malian people’s resolve for peace and sovereignty,» he declared emphatically.

The head of state urged all Malians to stand in solidarity with the Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) and their allied partners. He announced the continuation of military operations, vowing they would persist until the «complete pacification of the country» is achieved. Furthermore, he reiterated the unwavering commitment to the national refoundation project, known as Mali Kura, emphasizing its irreversible nature.

one month post gsim and fla offensive

This pronouncement by President Goïta comes precisely one month after a coordinated offensive by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM) and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). This attack targeted several Malian positions and tragically resulted in the death of Defense Minister Sadio Camara on April 25, 2026. In the aftermath, the transitional authorities have intensified their appeals for national cohesion. Meanwhile, the Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) and the African Corps continue their extensive air and ground operations across the regions of Ségou, Kidal, and Ménaka.