Recently the Malian Military Junta called for the views of the Malian Intellectual Forum for a political transition after the fall of former President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. Although the military holds the reins of power it is under pressure from other internal forces such as the movement du 5 juin – rassemblement des Forces Patriotiques (M5-RFP) and ECOWAS of West African States to guarantee the conditions for a civilian led political transition.
At the outset Col.Goita, head of Bamako Junta and President of National Council for Salvation of people urged the participants to work together for the well-being of the people, probably due to pressure from ECOWAS. The ECOWAS gave ultimatum to the military Junta to appoint civilians as President and Prime Minister of the Transition.
On the draft roadmap for transition, the participants agreed on establishing and strengthening defence and security, good governance, overhauling education, political and institutional reforms, adopting a social stability pact and holding elections. Meanwhile the junta has presented a roadmap for democratic civilian rule. ECOWAS too agreed to end the crisis and lifting sanctions as soon as transition leaders are appointed. The visit of Turkish Foreign Minister to Mali is also significant due to the country’s declining relations with France. The Turkish Minister agreed to lend their support to confront the ECOWAS – imposed embargo.