Imam Mahmoud Dicko, accused last week by authorities of “betrayal” and being “hostile to the transition,” has spoken out for the first time about the incident, which has further strained relations between Algiers and Bamako. In a video circulated on social media, he denies all allegations by the junta and reflects on Mali’s future.
Seated on a hospital bed, the religious leader faces the camera, prays, and declares, “It is time to reveal some truths.” The 13-minute video sees Mahmoud Dicko recount the behind-the-scenes of his trip to Algiers, asserting that he, rebel groups, and Malian transitional authorities were invited by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, although the latter two did not attend.
Imam Dicko states, “Those who speak on their behalf have announced that an imam from the country is currently in Algeria, meeting with rebels, and giving them money.” He explains that the Algerian president wanted his presence to discuss northern Mali, especially Kidal, emphasizing that “nothing can affect Mali without repercussions being felt in Algeria,” as allegedly conveyed by the Algerian head of state.
Regarding Mali, Imam Dicko claims that President Goita refused to meet him upon his return from Mecca. He then questions, “Are we going to stay in a transition that will never end? Who wishes for us to remain in this transition without a trajectory?” He concludes, “God knows that I will never betray my country because everything I possess is accountable to Him.”