the withdrawal of France divides in Mali

This is an announcement they have been waiting for days. Thursday, February 17 in the morning, a small group of anti-French demonstrators salute in their own way and in songs, the end of Operation Barkhane. “People are happy with the departure of France”said one. “France, to escape humiliation, announced the decision to withdraw its soldiers, when it was forced”, bids another. In the streets of Bamako, the departure of French troops is widely commented on, and the end of the operation in Mali does not satisfy everyone: “That’s all well and good, but let’s think about the consequences. We have been allies for years, we can’t do without France. As she can’t do without us”.

After nine years of presence in Mali, a page will therefore turn as the fight against jihadist groups is far from over. A regret expressed by certain voices of the Malian opposition. “I don’t think it was the right time. When you have a family conflict, it’s not the time to pack your bags and leave”, regrets Modibo Soumaré, president of the political parties for the success of the transition. Different reaction for the soldiers at the head of the country since the coup d’etat a year and a half ago, who wanted the end of the French intervention in Mali. “Mali is not and will not remain alone. France can leave, but let’s give time and you will see what will happen”explained Colonel Souleylmane Dembele, director of information and public relations for the armies.