Bamako: Malian authorities have detained two dozen soldiers accused of orchestrating a coup attempt against the ruling junta, which itself assumed power in the West African nation following a coup. The arrests, which include a high-ranking general, reflect growing discontent within the military amid ongoing instability in Mali.

According to France24.com, since taking control through successive coups in 2020 and 2021, the ruling junta in Mali has intensified its suppression of dissent amidst widespread unrest caused by jihadist activities. A security source revealed that within the past three days, at least 20 arrests have been made in connection with an alleged attempt to destabilize governmental institutions.

A member of the National Transition Council, Mali’s junta-supported parliament, suggested that the number of arrests could be around 50, all involving soldiers with the intention of toppling the junta.

Mali has faced a series of crises since 2012, including militant attacks by groups linked to Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State across the Sahel region. Additionally, the country is plagued by criminal and sectarian violence, and its economy is struggling.

Following the coups, the junta distanced itself from France, advocating for independence from its former colonial power, similar to military-led governments in Niger and Burkina Faso. Instead, Mali has established alliances with new partners, notably Russia, whose mercenaries have assisted in combating jihadists and other internal threats.

Despite these alliances, Mali has continued to face challenges in containing the jihadist threat. Both the regular army and its Russian associates have been accused of committing atrocities against civilians.

Malian sociologist Oumar Maiga interpreted the recent arrests as evidence of the military’s struggle to maintain control. There is reported dissatisfaction among some soldiers regarding preferential treatment given to Russian mercenaries over Malian troops.

In July, the military-appointed legislative body passed a bill granting General Assimi Goita, Mali’s junta chief, a five-year presidential term, which is renewable indefinitely without elections. The military government had previously committed to transitioning to civilian rule by March 2024.