May 1, 2026: An Al Qaeda-linked insurgent group, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, has called on Mali’s population to rise against the military-led government and support a transition to Sharia law. The rare French-language statement came days after coordinated attacks across the country, including near the capital Bamako, reportedly carried out in coordination with Tuareg-linked rebels of the Azawad Liberation Front.
The group urged political parties, soldiers, religious leaders and citizens to unite against what it described as a “terrorist junta,” referring to the government led by Assimi Goita. JNIM, which usually issues statements in Arabic, framed its appeal as a call for a “peaceful and inclusive transition,” while simultaneously demanding the establishment of Islamic rule.
Following the attacks, JNIM has reportedly tightened its influence by setting up checkpoints on major routes leading to Bamako and threatening a blockade of the capital. The Malian government has dismissed the threat, with military authorities insisting the situation is under control and vowing to “neutralise” insurgent groups responsible for the violence.