Mali (MNN) — As if COVID-19 didn’t usher in enough change for one year, Mali enters a new season of uncertainty following Tuesday’s military coup. Soldiers forced President Keita to step down and dissolve the National Assembly.
The move was a long time coming, says TWR’s Abdoulaye Sangho, but concern surrounds what happens next.
“Officials in the military decided to take over because the situation has been bad for so long. It will affect everything in the country.”
Coup leaders quickly promised elections yesterday to appease fretting world leaders. UN chief Antonio Guterres and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo both condemned the coup, calling upon Mali’s military to release their captives and restore order.
(Photo courtesy of Open Doors USA)
Concern about the coup’s potentially-destabilizing effect on Mali is legitimate. The government collapse in Mali could unleash a new wave of extremist violence throughout West Africa. Learn why here.
“Political instability in this region opens a void for radical Islamic insurgencies to gain power. Extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Al-Qaeda are opportunistically perpetrating attacks through Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, and Mali,” says David Curry, CEO of Open Doors USA.
What’s next? No one knows
Small celebrations broke out yesterday in the capital city, BBC News reports. Widespread protests calling for President Keita’s resignation began in June. Regional leaders met earlier this summer to resolve political unrest, but their meetings achieved nothing.
Insecurity and chaos triggered by the coup have brought everything to a halt, including ministry.
“Not only TWR, but all the country is stuck. For some time, things will not be moving,” Sangho says. Sangho oversees TWR’s work in West and Central Africa and says their Gospel messaging proclaims peace and reconciliation.
“It will be difficult for people to work. We don’t know how far radio ministry can continue during this period. So, we are asking for prayers for the country of Mali, and also for Christians and churches. It’s a difficult time.”
Pray for stability and peace so believers can continue their ministry in Mali. Consider supporting TWR financially to maintain broadcasts as long as possible.
Pray also for persecuted Malian Christians. “We must mobilize support for the people of Mali, especially religious minorities targeted by extremists,” Curry says.
Help strengthen Christians in Mali through Open Doors USA.
Header image is a representative stock photo courtesy Alexander Kovalev from Pexels.
