Hamma Ag Mahmoud served as Mali’s Minister of Labor and Civil Service from 1986 to 1988 under the military regime of General Moussa Traoré. He later held positions as prefect in multiple regions, including Sikasso, Koulikoro, Ségou, Gao, and Tombouctou. In 2012, he joined the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) during the Tuareg rebellion, playing a key role in negotiating the 2015 peace agreement with the Malian government.

Political elite’s failure fuels instability

Having lived in exile in Mauritania since 2011, Hamma Ag Mahmoud has now officially joined the Coalition of Forces for the Republic (CFR). «We are in a period of deep crisis, with the country unraveling at the seams», he stated during an interview. «Malians must unite behind a shared vision of society where everyone has a place. The CFR has taken the initiative, and I believe all Malians should rally behind it to organize a national conference that addresses past mistakes.»

«The rise of rebellions and jihadist groups in Mali is a direct result of the political elite’s failure», he asserted. «People need a unifying political project that reflects their aspirations.»

Can jihadist groups like JNIM be part of a republican framework? The former civil administrator believes so. «Absolutely», he said. «Democracy’s core principles—equality, justice—must be applied inclusively, with all Malians at the table.»

Toward reconciliation or fragmentation?

Critics worry that engaging with groups like JNIM, which is linked to al-Qaeda, could normalize extremism or even lead to the country’s disintegration. Hamma Ag Mahmoud disagrees. «If we integrate them into a collective project, we can put an end to this», he argued. «Restoring good governance will eliminate the root causes of rebellion and extremism.»

JNIM has recently softened its rhetoric in an attempt to position itself as a political actor in Mali. While it now claims to defend «sovereignty» and civilian interests, its ultimate goal remains unchanged: to impose its strict interpretation of Sharia law. Is negotiation possible within a republican system, or does it risk legitimizing extremist ideologies?

Hamma Ag Mahmoud remains optimistic. «All principles of democracy—equality, justice—must be upheld by involving every Malian», he emphasized. «There is no other path forward.»