Constitution of Mali

Republic of Mali
Flag Coat of arms
Motto: "Un peuple, un but, une foi"
Anthem: "Le Mali"
Capital	Bamako
Official languages	French
Government	Unitary semi-presidential republic
• President	Assimi Goïta
• Prime Minister	Choguel Kokalla Maïga
ISO 3166 code	[[ISO 3166-2:ML |ML ]]

The Constitution of Mali is the fundamental law of the Republic of Mali, establishing the framework for the government and its relationship with the people. The current constitution was adopted on January 12, 1992, following a national referendum. It replaced the previous constitution of 1974 and marked the transition to a multi-party democracy after years of military rule.

History

The first constitution of Mali was adopted in 1960, following the country's independence from France. This constitution established a single-party state under the leadership of President Modibo Keïta. In 1968, a military coup led by Moussa Traoré resulted in the suspension of the constitution and the establishment of military rule.

In 1974, a new constitution was adopted, but it maintained the single-party system. It was not until the democratic movement of the early 1990s that significant constitutional reform took place. The 1992 constitution was a result of these reforms, introducing a multi-party system and greater civil liberties.

Structure

The Constitution of Mali is divided into several titles, each addressing different aspects of governance and rights:

• Title I: The State and Sovereignty - Defines Mali as a sovereign, independent, and secular state.
• Title II: Rights and Duties of Citizens - Enumerates the fundamental rights and duties of citizens, including equality before the law, freedom of expression, and the right to education.
• Title III: The President of the Republic - Outlines the powers and responsibilities of the President, who serves as the head of state.
• Title IV: The Government - Describes the structure and function of the government, led by the Prime Minister.
• Title V: The National Assembly - Details the legislative powers vested in the National Assembly, the unicameral legislative body.
• Title VI: The Judicial Power - Establishes the independence of the judiciary and the structure of the court system.
• Title VII: The Constitutional Court - Defines the role of the Constitutional Court in interpreting the constitution and ensuring its supremacy.

Amendments

The constitution provides a process for amendments, which can be proposed by the President or members of the National Assembly. Amendments must be approved by a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly and are subject to a national referendum.

Significance

The 1992 constitution is significant for its role in establishing democratic governance in Mali. It has been a cornerstone for political stability and the protection of human rights, although challenges remain in its implementation, particularly in the context of political unrest and security issues in the northern regions.

Also see

• Politics of Mali
• History of Mali
• Economy of Mali
• Human rights in Mali