Bamako, Mali – (African Boulevard News) – Malians cast their votes yesterday in a much-anticipated constitutional referendum. The country’s coup leader believes that this referendum will help in the preparation of the upcoming elections in 2024. However, critics have called the referendum controversial, as it has the potential to extend the powers of the presidency.
The new draft constitution was aimed at bringing peace, stability, and constitutional reforms to Mali. This move comes after the country was thrown into chaos in 2020 due to a military coup. The coup led to the ousting of then-President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, and the country was plunged into a political crisis and an insurgency.
The new constitution, which has 156 articles, is expected to restructure the government, strengthen the powers of the Prime Minister and reduce the powers of the President. It is a significant step towards achieving political stability and economic growth. The referendum was an opportunity for Malians to have their say in shaping the future of their country.
Voters turned out in large numbers to vote, and the process was peaceful, albeit with a few isolated incidences. This is a positive sign for the country, which has been marred by violence and instability for several years.
A local resident in Bamako expressed his optimism about the referendum, “We hope that this constitution will ensure peace in the country. We want a peaceful Mali where everyone can live in harmony.”
However, some opposition parties, civil society organizations and religious leaders have criticized the referendum. They claim that the constitution was drafted by an unelected committee and did not have enough public consultation. They also fear that by reducing the powers of the President, it will lead to the centralization of power in the Prime Minister.
The international community has urged all parties to accept the outcome of the referendum and work together towards peace and stability in Mali. The United Nations, the European Union, and the African Union have all sent observers to monitor the election.
In conclusion, the referendum in Mali was an important step towards the democratic process in the country. It is hoped that the referendum will lead to peace and stability and that the new constitution will provide a framework for the country’s development. Malians have shown that they are committed to building a brighter future for their country and that they are willing to work together to achieve it.
