Amnesty International has called on Malian authorities to immediately release 12 opposition politicians, including Youssouf Daba Diawara, who have been detained arbitrarily for exercising their human rights. The organization highlighted that these individuals have been held for engaging in activities such as freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.
Youssouf Daba Diawara, formerly the coordinator of the Association of Movements, Friends, and Supporters of Imam Mahmud Dicko (CMAS) before it was dissolved in March, was detained on July 12. He has been charged with “opposition to legitimate authority” following his participation in a protest against power cuts and inflation on June 7. Diawara’s trial is set for October 3.
Amnesty International argues that the detentions are unfounded, particularly as the Malian government had already lifted the suspension of political activities on July 10. In a statement, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for West and Central Africa said: “We denounce the arbitrary detention of Youssouf Daba Diawara and other political leaders by the Malian authorities. Despite the lifting of the suspension of political activities on 10 July, there is a growing crackdown on human rights including the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association.”
Under Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Mali, a party since 1974, is prohibited from arbitrary arrest or detention and is obliged to ensure the liberty and security of persons. The government, led by Colonel Assimi Goïta, enforced a decree on April 10 suspending all political activities, a decision met with considerable opposition from various political and civil society groups demanding timely presidential elections. This decree has raised significant concerns about fundamental rights and freedoms within the country.
For further details on the situation, you can read more here.