Death of former Malian PM: shocking statement by Nigerien president

The death of former Malian Prime Minister Soumeylou Boubé Maïga rekindles tensions between Mali and Niger, as President Mohamed Bazoum accuses the Malian authorities of having assassinated the former Prime Minister, which provokes strong reactions in Bamako .

“I have just learned with dismay of the death of Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga, former Prime Minister of Mali. His death in prison recalls that of President Modibo Keita in 1977. I thought that such assassinations belonged to another era. My condolences to his family and friends,” tweeted President Mohamed Bazoum, following the death of the Malian Prime Minister.

Reactions in Bamako

Aboubacar Sidick Fomba, president of the Democratic Alliance of the Malian People (ADPD) and member of the National Transitional Council (CNT) said the Nigerien president is a “lackey” of France who deserves be prosecuted for his remarks.

“We remind this former rebel from Mali coming from Libya, support of the democracies with variable geometry to hold back and pull themselves together. This is very important. Calling the authorities of the transition “murderers” is a very serious accusation. We call on the transitional authorities to initiate legal proceedings against Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum. Because speaking of assassination, that would mean that he has proof. And, we expect him to bring us that evidence. He must be prosecuted for this“, demands Aboubacar Sidick Fomba.

The Malian government, through a press release, hailed the memory “of the great servant of the State, his commitment to the advent of democracy in Mali and prays for his eternal rest”.