Mali's Prime Minister Choguel Maiga has been dismissed from his position; state broadcaster ORTM announced on Wednesday. The civilian leader, who had been critical of the ruling junta’s inability to organise elections as promised, faced growing tensions with the military government over its transition to democracy.

The military leaders, who came to power through coups in 2020 and 2021, had initially pledged to hold elections by February this year. However, the vote was postponed indefinitely, citing technical challenges.

Last week, Maiga publicly expressed his frustration, revealing that the decision to delay elections had been made without consultation. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, he said, “It’s all happening in total secrecy, without the prime minister’s knowledge.”

His remarks heightened tensions with the junta, leading to the cancellation of a ministerial council meeting originally planned for Wednesday, according to a source close to Maiga.

Maiga had been a staunch defender of the junta, even as the regime faced criticism from neighbouring West African nations and international allies over its repeated election delays and military collaboration with Russian mercenaries, including the Wagner Group.

Under Malian law, Maiga's dismissal will necessitate the appointment of a new prime minister, who will be tasked with forming a government in consultation with interim President Assimi Goïta.

Maiga’s political career spans several decades. Before his appointment as prime minister in 2021, he held key ministerial positions under previous administrations, including serving as commerce minister under President Amadou Toumani Touré and as digital economy minister under President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta. He also played a prominent role as the leader of the M5-RFP opposition coalition, which was instrumental in the protests that led to Keïta’s overthrow.

Maiga’s dismissal marks another chapter in Mali’s ongoing political turmoil, as the nation continues to grapple with governance challenges and international scrutiny over its democratic transition.