Several former Malian ministers and military officials went on trial Tuesday, accused of siphoning off millions of dollars during the purchase of a presidential jet and military equipment in 2014.
The case is emblematic of the widespread corruption that led to the 2020 military coup in Mali. The current military rulers, who claimed the coup was aimed at ending corruption and addressing theSeveral ex-officials in Mali, including former prime minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga, face trial for alleged fraud linked to the controversial purchase of a $40 million presidential jet and military equipment.
insurgency, have been under international pressure to address these issues.
The presidential jet was purchased for $40 million, and a large quantity of arms were acquired without any public tender process. The case led to the International Monetary Fund freezing funds for Mali for six months.
Former Prime Minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga and former Finance Minister Bouare Fily Sissoko, who were involved in the purchases, were detained in 2021. They were accused of fraud, cheating, and nepotism. Maiga, who maintained his innocence, died in prison last year. His supporters allege that the junta deliberately allowed him to die.
Other accused individuals include Mahamadou Camara, the former chief of staff of the toppled president. The trial is expected to shed light on the extent of corruption within the previous government and the military.