(Ecofin Agency) - Despite the opposition's requests for the annulment of the new fundamental law, the constitution adopted by the Malian Constitutional Court now bolsters the powers of the transitional government.

On Saturday, July 22, Colonel Assimi Goïta promulgated the Constitution of the 4th Republic in Mali, following its adoption a day earlier by the Constitutional Court. The new fundamental law of the country, voted in favor by 96.91% in a referendum on June 18 according to authorities and some local entities, enhances and extends the powers of the head of state. It now makes the President responsible for the government's policies and allows direct intervention in the National Assembly.

The promulgation takes place despite opposition disagreement, which had filed requests for the referendum's annulment, rejected by the Supreme Court. Opponents of the new Constitution cite low voter turnout (less than 40% of the population) due to terrorist threats in several regions of the country, as well as irregularities.

The new text also establishes a Malian Senate and a Court of Public Accounts. It is expected to initiate the process of organizing administrative, legislative, and presidential elections scheduled for June and November 2023, and February 2024, respectively. In the meantime, it grants the executive branch a broader scope to implement social and economic reforms in the country.

Feriol Bewa