United Nations experts have called for the immediate and unconditional release of political activists Moulaye Baba Haïdara, Mahamoud Mohamed Mangane, and Amadou Togola, who reportedly endured torture and inhuman treatment during their detention by Malian security forces.
Concerns Over Torture and Detention
The activists, members of the African Solidarity for Democracy and Independence Party (SADI) and the Movement for Peace in Mali (MPPM), were detained for protesting against a draft constitution introduced by Mali’s transitional authorities. The draft was later adopted and promulgated on 22 July 2023.
Reports indicate that the activists were:
- Abducted by the Malian National Intelligence Service (ANSE) on separate dates in May and June 2023.
- Held incommunicado under inhumane conditions at ANSE premises until October 2023, before being transferred to Bamako’s Maison Centrale d’Arrêt de Bamako prison.
- Tortured during their detention, including flogging, scarification, and electrocution of sensitive areas, leading to severe physical and mental suffering.
Medical Treatment Denied
A prison doctor confirmed the activists require specialised medical care. Despite this, they remain detained, unable to access necessary treatment.
On 29 October 2024, the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights issued an order for Mali to:
- Suspend the detention warrants.
- Release the activists to seek medical care.
However, Mali has yet to comply with the court’s ruling.
Call for Action
The UN experts emphasized:
- Mali’s obligation under international law to provide urgent medical care to detainees.
- The need for a prompt review of the charges, which appear to be acts of retaliation for exercising freedom of expression.
- Immediate release of the activists if the charges are unfounded.
Broader Human Rights Concerns in Mali
The UN experts highlighted a worsening trend of human rights violations targeting opposition members, civil society organizations, journalists, and human rights defenders in Mali. Similar concerns were raised by UN mandate holders in 2021 and 2024.
This case reflects the growing suppression of dissent in Mali, where security services operate with impunity, shielded by a 2021 ordinance that exempts ANSE agents from prosecution except for serious negligence or procedural violations.
Next Steps
The international community continues to pressure Mali’s authorities to respect human rights and comply with the African Court’s rulings. The activists’ case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by opposition parties and civil society in the country.
