Assimi Goïta: Mali's Commander-in-Chief Now Takes the Defense Portfolio

Bamako, Mali May 5, 2026 In a dramatic consolidation of power amid one of Mali 39;s gravest security crises in over a decade, General Assimi Go iuml;ta the country 39;s military ruler has assumed direct control of the defense ministry, adding it to his existing role as head of state and commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The Decree According to a decree read on state TV on Monday, Go iuml;ta will assume the additional role of defense minister following the death of the