The military-led government in Mali has recently announced a postponement of the presidential election, originally set for February, which is a crucial step toward returning civilian governance to the conflict-ridden West African nation. The delay in the two-round election, initially planned for February 4 and 18, is attributed to "technical issues," as explained by government spokesperson Abdoulaye Maiga.
These technical challenges involve issues related to the recent adoption of a new constitution and a thorough review of voter lists. Additionally, Maiga mentioned an ongoing dispute with the French company Idemia, which plays a role in the census process.
The new dates for the presidential election will be shared later. Mali's military leadership had previously committed to holding the election in February following pressure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which had lifted trade and financial sanctions on Mali in July of the previous year, imposed when the military government considered staying in power for up to five years.
On June 18 of the current year, Malians participated in a referendum, also delayed by several months, to introduce a new constitution.
Critics argued that the new constitution granted extensive powers to the head of state, but the government asserted that it would pave the way for elections and the return of civilian rule.