Voters in Mali cast their ballots today, Sunday, in a referendum on constitutional changes which the ruling military council and regional forces have stated will pave the way for elections and a return to civilian rule. Vote counting began this evening, with preliminary results expected by Tuesday. The military council, which came to power through coups in 2020 and 2021, promised the referendum as part of the transition to democracy under pressure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
However, some changes included in the constitution drafted by the committee appointed to create it have sparked division, with supporters claiming they will strengthen fragile political institutions, while opponents argue they will grant the president more powers. Nevertheless, regional bodies and the United Nations see the referendum itself as an important test of the military council's commitment to the transitional path and to conducting a nationwide democratic process, particularly as extremist Islamist attacks intensify.
Interim President Assimi Goïta stated in a televised address: "We are betting on this project for the future of our country, to restore its authority and to regain trust between institutions and citizens," and added: "The time has come for us to reaffirm our commitment to a new Mali." The draft constitution includes amendments that were proposed in previous unsuccessful attempts to revise the constitution. Supporters hope these amendments will enhance democracy and address divisions, including the establishment of a second parliamentary chamber to improve representation from across Mali.
