The National Transitional Council of Mali has officially approved a controversial bill granting General Assimi Goïta, the country’s military leader, a five-year presidential term, renewable “as many times as necessary”—a move that effectively extends his rule without the need for elections.
The bill, passed on Thursday with 131 out of 147 legislators voting in favor, allows Goïta to remain in power until at least 2030, citing the need to “pacify” the nation amid ongoing security challenges. The legislation also permits members of the transitional government and legislature to contest in future elections, despite earlier promises of a swift return to civilian rule.
“This is a major step forward in the rebuilding of Mali,” said Malick Diaw, president of the legislative body. “The adoption of this text is in accordance with the popular will.”
Goïta, 41, first seized power in August 2020, toppling President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta following mass protests. He staged a second coup in May 2021, ousting the civilian transitional leadership. Despite repeated pledges to restore democracy, elections have been postponed indefinitely.
The decision has sparked concern among civil society groups and international observers, who warn it could entrench military rule and suppress dissent. In May 2025, the junta banned all political parties, intensifying a crackdown on opposition voices.