Mali junta bans political activities amid tensions

The ruling military junta in Mali has suspended all political activities in the country until further notice.

A spokesman, Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga, said the suspension was motivated by what he called "sterile discussions" during an attempt at national dialogue earlier this year.

In a statement on state television on Wednesday evening, he said all activities by political parties and "associations of a political nature" have been suspended on the grounds of maintaining public order.

More than 80 political parties and civil groups recently called for presidential elections "as soon as possible" and an end to military rule.

Mali has been ruled by the military since 2022, following a coup.

The junta said presidential elections would be held in February, but they were postponed, sparking outrage among political groups.