Barely released after a year in detention, former Malian Prime Minister Moussa Mara is calling for forgiveness, humanism, and national reconciliation. In a political climate still marked by tensions, he is also advocating for the release of prisoners of conscience.
A year after his imprisonment, former Malian Prime Minister Moussa Mara has been released and has chosen to dedicate his first message to reconciliation. From his home in Bamako, he called on Malians to demonstrate humanism, empathy, and solidarity to overcome the divisions that plague the country. « I forgive, and may I be forgiven, » he declared, making forgiveness and truth the cornerstones of a new beginning.
« I harbor no hatred toward any judge, any prosecutor, and even less toward the authorities. All are in God’s hands. I would therefore like to convey to everyone that I forgive, and in return, I ask for the forgiveness of all those who, in recent years, have been hurt by my words or actions—may God forgive me. » “
Moussa Mara, Former Prime Minister – Mali
Beyond this call for unity, Moussa Mara is demanding the release of political prisoners and those detained for their opinions. His case has become emblematic of the debates on civil liberties in Mali. Arrested on August 1, 2025, after posting a message on the internet in support of prisoners of conscience, he was sentenced to two years in prison, one of which was suspended, and fined 500,000 CFA francs—a sentence upheld on appeal before his release after twelve months of detention.
“Humanity. I have seen prisoners in absolute suffering forget their pain to support others. We cannot do more humanity. It is to this humanity that I call each and every one of us Malians. If we want unity and reconciliation, we must first undertake the work of humanity. And in this regard, I would like to express my heartfelt condolences for my lawyer, Mr. Montaratta. I pray to the Lord that he may be reunited with his family as soon as possible. May all those suffering the agony of detention regain their freedom and return to their families.”
Moussa Mara, Former Prime Minister – Mali
This appeal comes in a particular political context. Since the dissolution of political parties announced for 2025 and the extension of the transition period, debates on governance, civil liberties, and national reconciliation have occupied a central place in Malian political life. Without announcing an immediate return to the political scene, Moussa Mara claims to want to contribute to easing national tensions.
