Mali Transition President Addresses Nation

Mali's transition president, General Assimi Goïta, delivered a national address to honor the country's armed forces. During the address, Goïta attempted to reassure the population regarding the current situation. The speech followed reports regarding the reappearance of Zawad, a leader of an insurgent group. The opposition has denounced a proposed electoral code reform, claiming the law is specifically designed to ensure the eligibility of the ruling party leader. Mali's transition president promised that armed forces will continue operations until security is durably restored across the entire national territory. He said that a national surge is indispensable to continue the fight against terrorism. The president also praised the quality of cooperation with strategic partners. Mali's head of state stated that intelligence and search operations will continue to reinforce the national situation. He described the pursuit of sovereignty as a necessary path despite the associated costs. President Assimi Goïta announced on the evening of April 28 that the military is continuing operations to clear armed groups from the April 25 attack. He also paid tribute to the Malian armed forces during his appearance. The president's speech was broadcast on national television in the evening.