The following report highlights major news developments in politics and security in Mali on 23 February. This report focuses on Prime Minister Choguel Maiga accusing France of having intended to topple the junta, UN rights expert dismissing rumors of Wagner presence in Mali, a commentary urging transitional authorities to focus on unification, and another commentary seeing France’s military withdrawal as a great opportunity for Russia. Security ward, the army announces the killing of 22 terrorists and the arrest of three chief jihadists. This report includes background information to add context where needed.
