By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Several former ministers and military officials in Mali are standing trial over a $40 million corruption scandal linked to the controversial 2014 purchase of a presidential jet and military equipment. The acquisition, carried out without proper public tenders, sparked public outrage.
This has led to a six-month freeze of financial support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Key figures in the trial include former Prime Minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga and former Finance Minister Bouare Fily Sissoko, both accused of fraud and corruption.
Maiga, who consistently denied the charges, passed away in custody in 2023, raising concerns about mistreatment. The trial comes at a critical time as the military junta, which came to power in 2020, is under pressure to fulfill its anti-corruption pledges. The case is expected to be a litmus test of their commitment to justice and transparency.
Source: African News Network
