In a significant political development, Mali has adopted a new constitution with an overwhelming majority of 96.91% of the vote in a referendum held on June 18. Under the provisions of this new constitution, French will no longer hold the status of the official language. Instead, it will be designated as the working language. This move signals a major shift towards embracing the linguistic diversity of the nation, as 13 other national languages spoken in the country will now receive official language status.
Among these languages are Bambara, Bobo, Dogon, and Minianka, among others, which had already been granted national language status through a decree dating back to 1982. With around 70 other local languages spoken in the country, this recognition is a significant step towards preserving and promoting linguistic heritage in Mali.
Colonel Assimi Goita, the leader of Mali’s junta, played a crucial role in putting the new constitution into effect, officially marking the commencement of the Fourth Republic in this West African nation. Since the military took control of the government through a coup in August 2020, they have emphasized the importance of the constitution as a fundamental element in the process of rebuilding the country.
The adoption of the new constitution also indicates a delay in the promised elections, initially planned for February 2022, which have now been rescheduled to take place in February 2024. The political landscape of Mali has witnessed two subsequent coups in recent years, one in August 2020 and another in May 2021, underscoring the significance of the new constitutional framework in shaping the nation’s future.
The decision to drop French as the official language comes at a time when anti-France sentiments are on the rise across West Africa due to perceived military and political interference. By making this change, Mali is asserting its independence and affirming its cultural identity in the face of external pressures.
With the advent of the Fourth Republic and the embrace of multilingualism, Mali is poised for a new chapter in its political history. The recognition of diverse languages not only fosters inclusivity but also reinforces the importance of preserving the country’s unique cultural heritage. As Mali moves forward, it is hoped that the new constitution will play a pivotal role in promoting unity and stability while respecting the linguistic tapestry that binds the nation together.
