Former Malian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga was taken into police custody on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, following questioning by the National Economic and Financial Center.
The move forms part of an ongoing investigation into suspected embezzlement of public funds, a case that has the potential to send shockwaves through Mali’s political landscape.
Judicial sources indicate that the investigation extends beyond Maïga himself, implicating several former members of his leadership team. Among those named are the former chief of staff and three former administrative and financial directors.
Authorities are focusing on the management of public funds during Maïga’s tenure as head of government, seeking to determine whether any irregularities constituted criminal misappropriation.
The case emerges amid a tense political backdrop. Maïga was dismissed from his post in November 2024 after publicly criticizing the junta led by General Assimi Goïta. Last July, the Office of the Auditor General flagged financial anomalies that may have contributed to the current suspicions surrounding his administration.
Since leaving office, Maïga has remained an influential political figure, unafraid to comment on the conduct of the transitional government and the nation’s electoral calendar. His continued visibility in public discourse has made this investigation particularly sensitive, with observers noting the potential implications for Mali’s fragile political balance.
“The investigation focuses on financial management during the former Prime Minister’s time in office,” a judicial source confirmed, underlining the seriousness of the allegations.
Political analysts suggest that the case could intensify existing tensions between civilian political actors and the military-led transition, raising questions about governance, transparency, and accountability.
Meanwhile, the public and media remain closely attentive to developments, aware that the outcome could shape Mali’s political trajectory in the months ahead.
As authorities continue their inquiries, the investigation into Choguel Maïga’s administration underscores ongoing challenges in Mali surrounding public sector accountability and the intersection of politics and justice.
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