In an overwhelming show of support, Malians have approved changes to the constitution in the referendum held on June 18. According to the country’s electoral commission, 97% of the votes were in favor of the proposed changes.
The referendum, backed by the military rulers and regional powers, is seen as a crucial step towards the return to civilian rule and the scheduled elections in February next year. Out of the 8.4 million registered voters, the turnout was just under 40%, as announced by Moustapha Cisse, the head of the electoral commission.
Mali has experienced two military coups since August 2020, leading to the ousting of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta. In his address, Junta leader and interim President Assimi Goïta expressed his belief that this referendum sets the stage for a new, resilient, and prosperous Mali, with a primary focus on the well-being of the people.
There were concerns prior to the referendum that the new constitution would grant extensive powers to the president, including the authority to hire and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet members. However, the constitutional changes also aim to promote broader political representation by introducing a second parliamentary chamber. It is worth noting that some Islamic clerics voiced opposition to the designation of Mali as a secular state, as outlined in the constitutional amendments.
