The military council had promised to hold the referendum as part of the process of transition to democracy under pressure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
But some of the changes contained in the constitution drafted by the committee preparing it have divided opinion, as supporters say it will strengthen weak political institutions, while opponents say it will give more power to the president.
Nevertheless, regional bodies and the United Nations view the referendum itself as an important test of the military council’s willingness to embark on a nationwide transitional path and democratic process, particularly at a time when the militants intensify their attacks.
“With this project, we are betting on the future of our state, the restoration of its authority and trust between institutions and citizens,” interim president Asimi Guetta said on Friday in a televised address.
“It is time for us to reaffirm our commitment to the new Mali,” he added.
The draft constitution includes amendments proposed during earlier unsuccessful efforts to revise the constitution.
Supporters hope these amendments will strengthen democracy and heal divisions, including the creation of a second parliamentary chamber to improve representation from all regions of Mali.
Preliminary results of the referendum are expected to appear within 72 hours of the vote, with presidential elections scheduled for February 2024.
What is happening in Mali?
Mali asked the Security Council on Friday to withdraw the United Nations peacekeeping mission, Minusma, two years after the withdrawal of French forces. Mali’s military regime is trying to push through a rejected constitution enshrined in the next step. The African Sahel region awaits the intervention of the anti-ISIS coalition led by the United States, with the participation of Saudi Arabia and Morocco. ISIS and other terrorist movements have reached their maximum expansion in the region, including most of Mali and Burkina Faso. The Alliance for the Liberation Front of Azawad rejects any situation that ignores its existence and its requirements, the most important of which is the conclusion of peace agreements benefiting from international guarantees. The departure of the United Nations forces puts an end to any international presence or surveillance, and will free the hands of the Malian army and “Wagner” accused of having committed murders against the defenseless population. Past chaos has sent thousands of Arab and Tuareg refugees fleeing to Mauritania, Niger, Burkina Faso and Algeria.
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