Mali/Algeria: Is there a link between the recent terrorist attacks and the statement by Algeria’s head of diplomacy?
Algiers, Algeria – “The Malian crisis does not require a military solution. It is a conflict among brothers. The resolution can only be political,” declared Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf during a recent press conference.
His remarks come in the wake of intense clashes between the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) and terrorist groups.
These confrontations, triggered by a coalition of terrorist forces in northern Mali near the Algerian border, raise questions about Algeria’s stance.
Are Algerian authorities hiding something? Why would they oppose the decisive elimination of lawless rebel groups that have threatened Malians for over a decade?
Attaf’s comments have intensified suspicions among Malian and African observers regarding Algeria’s role in Mali’s security crisis.
Algeria has been accused of being an ally to Mali’s enemies, allegedly providing them with a rear base.
Furthermore, Algerian authorities’ persistent adherence to the Algiers Accord, viewed by many as ineffective, prompts additional scrutiny.
Despite nearly nine years since its signing, the peace agreement has yielded no positive results.
Rebel and criminal groups have continued to massacre Malian security forces and civilians, leading to multiple coups in the West African nation.
Algeria’s insistence on this peace agreement, in full awareness of Mali’s dire security situation, seems to downplay the conflict’s severity and obscure the machinations of foreign powers and their allies, in which Algeria may be implicated.
It is crucial to support the legitimate defense efforts of Mali and seek solutions that reflect the current reality, without endorsing the destructive actions of armed groups.
Olivier TOE
