Mamadou Hawa Gassama, a member of Mali’s National Transitional Council (NTC), has issued a formal apology to Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara for comments deemed offensive and defamatory, while remaining in detention pending further legal proceedings.
Gassama was arrested on July 2 in Bamako under charges of “attacking institutions” and “disturbing public order” following public statements that allegedly undermined both Mali’s transitional government and a foreign head of state.
The accusations, brought under Articles 34 and 35 of Mali’s Penal Code and Law 2019-056 on cybercrime, have sparked national and regional attention.
In a letter dated July 10 and described as “personal and confidential” by his lawyer, Mamadou Ismaila Konaté, Gassama expressed deep regret over his remarks.
“I express my sincere regret and my deep apologies for the remarks I made to you. Although in response to a complicated situation, I understand that they may have offended you,” the letter reads.
“I never intended to disrespect you or tarnish your image,” he added, seeking to clarify the intent behind his earlier statements.
According to Konaté, the letter was transmitted “through the appropriate channels” and warned that copies circulating in public may not be authentic.
He emphasized that his client “remains willing to take any useful initiative to repair the harm caused” and that the Defense continues to act “with calm and rigor.”
Judicial sources have confirmed that Gassama is currently detained at Abidjan Central Prison.
The investigation is focused on his public comments, which prosecutors claim were “likely to disturb public order” and “undermine the honor of Malian institutions and a foreign head of state.”
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the Malian government has remained silent on the matter.
However, the Malian Association for Human Rights (AMDH) has raised concerns over Gassama’s continued detention, calling attention to the lack of transparency and urging authorities to uphold the presumption of innocence and ensure full respect for due process.
No date has been set for a hearing, but the Defense expressed hope for “an outcome that respects the principles of law and the interests involved.”
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