The Commission nationale des droits de l’Homme (CNDH) in Mali has strongly condemned recent attacks on civilian populations in a camp at Tagadayat, in the Ménaka region. In a statement released on October 26, 2026, the CNDH expressed deep concern over these serious human rights abuses. The commission's interim president, Me Aïssata Founé Tembély, offered condolences to the families of those killed and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
The CNDH based its condemnation on the country's constitution, which came into effect on July 22, 2023, as well as international agreements including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, and the four 1949 Geneva Conventions on international humanitarian law. The commission emphasized that such attacks could be considered imprescriptible crimes.
The CNDH called on the Malian authorities to investigate, identify, and prosecute those responsible for these human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law. The commission also recommended that the government continue to strengthen defense and security measures to protect civilians.
The CNDH praised the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) for enhancing protection measures for the most exposed populations, particularly by facilitating the relocation of threatened camp residents to the city of Ménaka. The commission reiterated its support for the FAMa in their fight against terrorist groups, provided that this is done in strict respect for human rights and international humanitarian law.
The CNDH encouraged the FAMa to continue their efforts to protect civilians and urged the population to collaborate with the military. According to the commission, the protection of human rights is a shared responsibility, and no one is immune to human rights abuses.
The attacks on civilians in the Ménaka region have raised concerns about the security situation in Mali. The country has been struggling with terrorist groups and banditry in recent years, leading to a significant humanitarian crisis.
The CNDH's condemnation of the attacks and its call for perpetrators to be brought to justice reflect the commission's commitment to promoting and protecting human rights in Mali. The commission's efforts aim to ensure that those responsible for human rights abuses are held accountable and that victims receive justice.
Key points
- The CNDH condemned the attacks on civilians in the Ménaka region and called for perpetrators to be brought to justice.
- The commission praised the FAMa for enhancing protection measures for civilians and reiterated its support for their efforts to combat terrorist groups.
- The CNDH emphasized that the protection of human rights is a shared responsibility and encouraged collaboration between the population and the FAMa.
