By John Ikani
The military government of Mali have officially announced an end to diplomatic, military and economic ties with France, a decision it claims, is in line with the demands of the Malien people.
It has consequently abandoned French as its official language and ordered French troops to leave its territory within 72hrs.
The decision of the military regime was contained in a communique sent out by the spokesperson of the transitional government led by Colonel Assimi Goita Malick.
The government said its decision to sever cooperation agreements with France was effective from Monday, the 24th of January 2022.
It also announced an end to its participation in the Economic Community Of West African States ECOWAS and noted that henceforth Mali will no longer be a member of ECOWAS.
What the Junta is saying
The communique read in part: “The government of Mali officially announces an end to diplomatic, military and economic ties with France according to the demands of the Malien people.
“The government of Mali announces its decision to sever cooperation agreements with France from today the 24th of January 2022.” The statement noted.
“The government of Mali announces that as from today the 24th of January, French will no longer be the official language of Mali. BAMBARA will henceforth be the official language of Mali.
“The government of Mali calls for the immediate exit of France and its troops from across its national territory.
“The government of Mali calls for the immediate closure of the French embassy and all French institutions on the national territory of Mali within 72 hours.
“The government of Mali calls on all the youths, civil servants, civil society, and religious authorities to mobilize and take charge of their destiny.”
