General Assimi Goïta, the President of Mali’s Transition, delivered a significant political address on May 27, 2026, from Koulouba. This declaration followed the Eid al-Kebir prayer, which took place at the presidential palace in Bamako. In the presence of the Prime Minister, the President of the National Transitional Council, government officials, and accredited diplomats in Mali, Goïta publicly announced an expanded interpretation of terrorism, now encompassing media narratives, economic leverage, political maneuvers, state actions, and international influences.
An unprecedented prayer setting
Due to prevailing security concerns in Bamako, the traditional Eid al-Kebir prayer ceremony was not held at the customary Grand Mosque of Bagadadji this year. Instead, the banquet hall at Koulouba was specially adapted to serve as the prayer venue. Imam Mahmoud Touré, affiliated with the presidential palace mosque, led the service, offering prayers for Mali’s peace and stability.
A multifaceted discourse
Following the prayer, President Goïta addressed the press, characterizing Mali as a target of what he termed “multiform terrorisms.” He asserted that the pressures exerted on the nation are no longer confined solely to the military domain but have broadened to include media portrayals, economic instruments, and external political interference. He declared, « All relentless efforts through manipulated narratives will not shake the Malian people’s resolve for peace and sovereignty. »
The head of state urged Malians to rally behind the Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) and their partners, confirming that military operations would persist until the “complete pacification of the country.” He reiterated the irreversible nature of the national refoundation project, known as Mali Kura.
One month after the GSIM and FLA offensive
This pivotal speech comes approximately one month after a coordinated offensive launched by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM) and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). This joint operation targeted several Malian positions, tragically resulting in the death of Defense Minister Sadio Camara on April 25, 2026. Since this event, transitional authorities have intensified their appeals for national cohesion. Air and ground operations conducted by FAMA and the African Corps are actively continuing across the regions of Ségou, Kidal, and Ménaka.
