Hamma Ag Mahmoud, a former Malian government minister, has officially aligned himself with the Coalition des forces pour la République (CFR), led by prominent imam Mahmoud Dicko. Ag Mahmoud’s decision comes as he voices growing concerns over the country’s escalating instability and the urgent need for a unified national project.
a career spanning politics and diplomacy
Between 1986 and 1988, Ag Mahmoud served as Mali’s Minister of Labour and Civil Service under the military regime of General Moussa Traoré. His career later expanded into regional leadership, where he held prefect positions in key cities such as Sikasso, Koulikoro, Ségou, Gao, and Tombouctou. Following this, he joined the Mouvement national de libération de l’Azawad (MNLA) during the 2012 rebellion, contributing to the 2015 peace agreement with the Malian government.
call for national unity amid crisis
Now based in Mauritania since 2011, Ag Mahmoud emphasized the severity of Mali’s current challenges. “The country is in a state of collapse,” he stated. “Malians must unite around a shared vision for our society. The CFR has taken the lead, and we must all join this movement to organize a national conference that corrects past mistakes.”
He went further, adding, “The failures of our political class have paved the way for rebellions and jihadist groups. What Mali desperately needs is a political framework that includes everyone.” Ag Mahmoud’s remarks reflect a growing sentiment among citizens who see the CFR as a potential pathway to restoring order and governance.
dialogue with armed groups: a path to stability?
Despite widespread apprehension, Ag Mahmoud advocates for inclusive dialogue with armed factions, including the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda-affiliated jihadist group. He argues that integrating these groups into a national project could end the violence. “If we bring everyone to the table and restore good governance, the conditions that fuel extremism will disappear,” he asserted.
This position challenges the skepticism of many Malians, who fear that engaging with jihadists could legitimize their agenda or lead to further territorial fragmentation. Yet Ag Mahmoud remains steadfast: “In a republic, all principles—equality, justice—must be upheld while involving every Malian in the process.”
shifting narratives and the future of Mali
The JNIM has recently adjusted its rhetoric, positioning itself as a defender of sovereignty and local communities. However, its ultimate goal remains unchanged: the imposition of its strict interpretation of Islamic law. For Ag Mahmoud, this shift presents an opportunity for negotiation within a democratic framework. “The CFR’s approach is to ensure that all voices are heard while upholding the values of democracy,” he explained.
The former minister’s alignment with the CFR signals a potential turning point in Mali’s political landscape. As the country grapples with insecurity and governance deficits, his call for unity and dialogue could resonate with citizens seeking alternatives to the status quo.