Authorities in Mali blocked a protest in Bamako organized by the Initiative of Political Parties for the Charter (Ipac) and other civil society groups, aimed at defending constitutional order and opposing the proposed dissolution of political parties.

Hundreds of demonstrators over the weekend gathered outside the Palace of Culture but were denied access by heavily deployed national police forces. Protesters chanted slogans critical of the military-led transition before being dispersed with tear gas.

The demonstration came in response to recent proposals by the Forces vives de la nation, which called for the installation of General Assimi Goïta as President of the Republic for a renewable five-year term and the dissolution of all political parties.

The recommendations followed a two-day national consultation in Bamako on April 26–27, 2025, aimed at overhauling the political party system. Proposals included setting a CFA 100 million ($170,000 USD) deposit to form a political party, limiting party leadership to individuals aged 25–75, and requiring strong regional representation.

Additional suggestions involved abolishing public funding for parties, restricting community and religious leaders from electoral roles, and removing the official status of opposition leader.

Participants also called for halting electoral activities, maintaining the current transitional government, and requiring prior approval for political protests.

The political opposition boycotted the consultation process.