Mali Junta Leader Engages with Sudan’s Head Amid Domestic Turmoil
General Assimi Goïta of Mali met with Sudan’s Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to address military challenges both nations face. Goïta, who led a coup in 2020, welcomed Burhan, who removed civilian leaders in 2021. As Sudan deals with internal conflict between Burhan and his former deputy, the two leaders seek stronger ties, distancing themselves from Western influence.
On Saturday, the head of Mali’s ruling junta, General Assimi Goïta, engaged in discussions with Sudan’s de facto leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, amidst ongoing military challenges faced by both nations. Upon Burhan’s arrival for a 48-hour state visit, the Malian presidency announced plans for various collaborative activities, although specific details of their agenda remain undisclosed.
General Goïta, who came to power following a coup in 2020 that deposed then-President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta, welcomed Burhan, who had similarly seized control after ousting civilian officials in 2021. Presently, Sudan is mired in conflict as Burhan’s forces confront a rebellion led by his former deputy, General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, known colloquially as Hemedti. This conflict emerged in the wake of the 2019 revolution that overthrew long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir.
The ties between both leaders signify a strategic alignment against mutual challenges. Following the coup in Mali, the junta has refrained from cooperating with France, preferring to foster relations with Russia and the Wagner Group. Sudan has also sought closer ties with Moscow but is currently navigating a complex political landscape as Russian support for the RSF is under reconsideration due to its interests in Syria.
In related developments, Guinea-Bissau has confirmed that Burhan will extend his diplomatic visit to their country on Sunday and Monday.
The political landscape in both Mali and Sudan has been characterized by military regimes facing significant internal and external pressures. In Mali, a coup led by General Assimi Goïta in 2020 replaced the democratically elected government, prompting a shift in foreign alliances, particularly distancing from France in favor of Russia. Similarly, Sudan’s situation deteriorated after military leadership changes, with Burhan’s removal of civilian government elements leading to civil conflict against his former ally Hemedti. Both countries are navigating challenges that have prompted them to seek alliances with non-Western powers amidst their struggles.
The meeting between General Assimi Goïta and Abdel Fattah al-Burhan underscores the ongoing military and political turbulence affecting both Mali and Sudan. As both leaders confront significant internal challenges, their discussions may lead to new strategies for collaboration and support. With their countries increasingly aligning with Russia instead of traditional Western allies, the ramifications of their actions will likely extend beyond their borders, influencing regional dynamics.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
