Mali’s Defence Minister, General Sadio Camara, has been killed following a series of coordinated and simultaneous attacks on military installations across the country.
The development was confirmed on Sunday, a day after a suicide car bomb struck his residence in the heavily fortified garrison town of Kati, located about 15 kilometres from the capital, Bamako.
The assault was reportedly carried out by a combined force of al-Qaeda-linked Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and Tuareg rebels from the Liberation Front of Azawad.
Reports indicate that the offensive extended beyond Kati, with attacks recorded in Bamako, Gao, Sevare, and Kidal. As of Sunday afternoon, heavy gunfire and multiple explosions were still being heard in Kidal, suggesting that security operations remain ongoing.
General Camara, a key figure in Mali’s military government since the 2020 coup, was widely regarded as one of the most powerful members of the ruling leadership. Analysts say his death represents a significant strategic setback for the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa).
Amid the escalating violence, Interim President Assimi Goita has reportedly been moved to a secure location but remains in control of the government.
The international community, including the African Union and the United States Bureau of African Affairs, has condemned the attacks, warning that the situation could further destabilize the region at a time when West African nations are already facing heightened insecurity and economic pressures.
