Goïta’s independence day address: a dual promise
In a radio and television address delivered Monday evening, Mali’s transitional president, General Assimi Goïta, pledged to intensify the fight against armed jihadist groups while simultaneously extending an olive branch to fellow Malians. The speech coincided with the 66th anniversary of Mali’s independence and came amid a sharp rise in attacks targeting the national army.
Dialogue and territorial defense go hand in hand
Goïta reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Mali’s territorial integrity and national unity, but insisted he remains open to dialogue. “While remaining open to dialogue and reconciliation among Malian brothers, our firm determination to defend the integrity of our territory and national unity remains intact,” he stated. He also promised to ramp up operations against jihadist armed groups as Malian forces face a surge in assaults. “In this context, the fight against insecurity and terrorist armed groups will intensify further,” he added.
Deadly attack in Dioura leaves over 100 soldiers dead
The address followed a series of recent attacks on Malian forces. The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), an Al-Qaeda affiliate, has claimed or been accused of multiple operations against military positions. On September 10, an assault on the Dioura camp in central Mali killed more than 100 Malian soldiers, with dozens more taken prisoner. The attack dealt another severe blow to the Malian army, which has been battling jihadist groups for years.
Honoring fallen soldiers and deepening ties with Russia
During his speech, Goïta paid tribute to soldiers who died in combat, praising their sacrifice for the nation’s defense. He also reiterated his intention to strengthen the Malian army’s capabilities, mentioning continued cooperation with Russia, which has become Bamako’s main strategic partner following the gradual withdrawal of French forces and several Western allies. Mali marks its 66th independence anniversary on Tuesday, September 22, with ceremonies taking place against a particularly tense security backdrop as jihadist groups continue to launch attacks on security forces and seek to expand their influence across several regions.
