Bamako, Mali – (African Boulevard News) – Excitement filled the air in Bamako as tens of thousands of Malians marched through the streets on Friday, June 16, to take part in rallies ahead of Sunday’s constitutional referendum.
The referendum, which has been highly debated and delayed since 2019, proposes several amendments to the Malian constitution, including the creation of a senate, a prime minister appointed by the parliament, and reducing the presidential term from five to four years.
Supporters of the referendum claim that it will lead to the much-needed political and social change in Mali, while those who are against it fear that it will only serve to strengthen the president’s powers and weaken the parliament.
“This referendum is an opportunity for us to choose our future and to make our voices heard,” said Oumou Sangaré, a singer and activist who participated in the rally. “We have been waiting for this moment for a long time, and we will not let anyone take it away from us.”
The rallies were organized by various political parties, civil society groups, and youth organizations, and were aimed at increasing awareness and voter turnout.
“We want to encourage the Malian people to go out and vote on Sunday because this is a crucial moment for our country,” said Tiébilé Dramé, the leader of the Rally for Mali party. “We need to show the world that we are a democratic country that respects its own laws and values.”
However, the referendum has been overshadowed by the ongoing security crisis in Mali, which has led to the displacement of thousands of people and the deaths of many others.
“The security situation in Mali is very worrying, and we cannot ignore it,” said Mahmoud Dicko, a prominent imam who has called for a boycott of the referendum. “How can we have a referendum when people are dying in the north and the center of the country? We need peace and stability first.”
Despite the concerns, Malian authorities have assured that the necessary security measures will be put in place for a peaceful and fair referendum.
In conclusion, Malians are gearing up for a historic moment in their country’s history. Whatever the outcome of the referendum, it is clear that the Malian people are determined to shape their own future and to build a better and more prosperous society.
