The Malian government is investigating its armed forces over the killing of 24 civilians in February. Despite initial denials, the military’s relationship with the Russia-backed Wagner Group raises serious allegations of human rights abuses. This situation follows the departure of the UN stabilizing forces, exacerbating local unrest and violence.
The Malian government has initiated an investigation into the armed forces regarding the massacre of 24 civilians, including women and children, that occurred on February 17 in the Tilemsi commune of the Gao region. Initially, the armed forces denied any involvement but later asserted that the accusations were unfounded and stemmed from terrorist groups aiming to tarnish their image.
The Chief of Staff of the Mali Armed Forces indicated that similar allegations have previously been made against them, suggesting they were crafted by terrorist organizations and their backers to discredit the military. However, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has reported numerous violations by the Malian armed forces, including the killing of at least 32 civilians and destruction of homes since May 2024.
HRW highlighted that the Mali Armed Forces, supported by the Russia-backed Wagner Group, have escalated violent military operations against civilians. The involvement of the Wagner Group, a private military company, has prevented effective military or legal actions against them despite accusations of serious crimes like genocide.
The increase in civilian violence coincided with the departure of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), following a UN Security Council resolution. The reduction of international support has intensified local insurgency and political instability, allowing attacks on civilians to become more frequent and severe.
Recent incidents prior to the February massacre include allegations of summary executions linked to the Malian armed forces. The UN Human Rights Chief, Volker Türk, expressed alarm over these credible accusations, noting at least 25 people were executed in Welingara village in January. Despite corroborated evidence of the killings, there has been no indication of investigative actions by the local authorities.
The Malian government’s investigation into the armed forces’ involvement in civilian killings marks a critical response to increasing allegations of military abuses, particularly under the influence of the Wagner Group. The absence of effective oversight and accountability raises concerns about the protection of civilians amidst escalating violence and political instability in Mali.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
