(Adnkronos) – Following a resolution adopted today in plenary, the European Parliament condemns the dissolution of political parties in Mali and the repression of the opposition. MEPs criticize the Malian authorities for their conduct, which has “undermined democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly”, reaffirming the EU’s support for multi-party democracy, civil society and human rights in the African country.
The resolution was adopted with 511 votes in favour, 14 against and 25 abstentions; all Italian MEPs present supported it. MEPs call for respect for international law, highlighting the need to create the conditions for transparent and peaceful elections and calling for “the immediate release of those arrested or abducted for political reasons, the end of repression and intimidation, and guarantees for the safety of members of the opposition and civil society actors.
The European Parliament also denounces the “persistent violence and Islamist terrorism” in the country, stressing “the need for accountability for human rights violations and war crimes committed by the Wagner Group/Africa Corps” and expressing concern about the increase in illegal migration flows from the country, “fueled by growing insecurity, political instability and economic stagnation”, calling on the Malian authorities to “take full responsibility for preventing uncontrolled departures”.
