Former Mali PM faces allegations over public funds misuse

Former Mali Prime Minister Choguel Maiga is facing prosecution over allegations of misuse of public funds during his time, according to Africa News on July 28th.

Mali’s Office of the Auditor General has submitted documents to the judiciary highlighting irregularities and suspected embezzlement of state funds during the former Prime Minister’s time. 

Several judicial sources confirmed the existence of “Choguel Maiga Files.” According to the information acquired by RFI, the Attorney General of Mali’s Supreme Court recently reviewed the case, which may result in Maiga being summoned for questioning in court.

The investigation focused on two major incidents. The first incident was questionable expenses related to the announcement of a public project under Maiga’s leadership. The second incident concerns allegations of unjustified mission-related payments, which cost roughly $3.3 million by the Prime Minister’s Office.

An investigator who is further reviewing the case states that “no one is above the law” and stresses the judiciary’s commitment to uncovering the truth and exposing Maiga’s corruption.

Several people who support the former Prime Minister remain defiant and deny the allegations. A former aide to Maiga stated that “Maiga is not afraid and will cooperate with the justice system if called upon.” Several people call the allegations and investigation a political move, arguing that Maiga’s criticism about recent government actions, that being the military leading the government, made him a target. 

“He has files of his own,” according to Maiga’s close associate, warning that the former Prime Minister will fight back with his own evidence against the allegations.

Alongside Maiga, Moussa Mara, who is Mali’s former Prime Minister, is being targeted due to these criticisms of the current government. The current government levies accusations against the current government, stating that Mara is “undermining the credibility of the state,” “attempting destabilization,” or “opposition to authority.”

Mali’s freedom of speech includes political activities are seen with suspensions. On May 9th, the current government suspended political activities amid growing tensions among several citizens against the government.

Africa News, Maghrebi.org