Former Malian minister Hamma Ag Mahmoud, who served under General Moussa Traoré in the 1980s, has officially joined the Coalition of Forces for the Republic (CFR), led by Imam Mahmoud Dicko. Ag Mahmoud, who previously held key administrative roles and participated in the 2015 peace agreement as part of the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA), cited the country’s deepening crisis as the driving force behind his decision.

From military rule to political opposition

Between 1986 and 1988, Hamma Ag Mahmoud served as Minister of Labor and Public Service under Mali‘s military regime. His career later took him to prominent regional prefect positions in Sikasso, Koulikoro, Ségou, Gao, and Tombouctou. After leaving government service in 2011, he moved to Mauritania, where he remained until his recent return to political engagement.

In a recent interview, Ag Mahmoud expressed his concerns about Mali’s deteriorating situation, stating, « The nation is in a state of collapse. It’s time for Malians to unite around a shared vision of society. The CFR has taken the initiative, and I believe all citizens should rally behind it to organize a national conference that corrects past mistakes. »

Criticism of political failure

Ag Mahmoud didn’t mince words when addressing the root causes of Mali‘s ongoing conflicts. « The rise of rebellions and jihadist groups stems from the political class’s failure, » he asserted. « Malians need a unifying political project that includes everyone. »

The former minister also weighed in on the controversial issue of engaging with armed groups, including jihadist factions like JNIM, which is affiliated with al-Qaeda. While many Malians remain skeptical about such dialogues—fearing territorial fragmentation or legitimizing extremist ideologies—Ag Mahmoud argued, « If we integrate them into a common project and restore good governance, we can end jihadism and rebellions. »

Balancing republic values and Islamic governance

In recent months, JNIM has attempted to rebrand itself as a political actor in Mali, emphasizing concepts like sovereignty while maintaining its ultimate goal of imposing Sharia law. This shift has sparked debate about the feasibility of negotiating with such groups within a republican framework.

Ag Mahmoud, however, remains optimistic. « Of course negotiations are possible, » he stated. « Democratic principles—equality and justice—must be applied inclusively, bringing all Malians together. »