Division in Mali Ahead of Referendum Paving the Way for Elections

Voters in Mali will cast their ballots next Sunday in a referendum on constitutional amendments that would enhance presidential powers. The military council postponed the referendum for three months, citing logistical issues. The referendum is seen as an indicator of the council’s commitment to organizing the election and its capability to do so. There is no clear consensus in the country before the vote, as political parties are divided, and the military council has been striving to energize its campaign in support of the amendments.