Why did jihadists and ex-Tuareg rebels clash in central Mali?
Clashes pitted a jihadist group against predominantly Tuareg ex-rebels on Friday in central Mali. Results: between seven and fifteen deaths depending on sources.
Members of the Permanent Strategic Framework, in Anefis, northern Mali, October 6, 2023. © CSP
By: RFI Follow
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With our regional correspondent,
Serge Daniel
The clashes opposed the jihadists of the support group for Muslims and Islam (Jnim) of Iyad Ag Ghaly to the fighters of the Permanent Strategic Framework (CSP-PSD), the former rebellion whose stronghold was for a moment the city of Kidal. The battle took place in central
Mali
, in an area commonly called the Wagadou forest, located not far from the border with Mauritania. The toll varies from seven to more than fifteen, depending on our different sources.
Observers of the Malian situation admit to being surprised. Because on the ground, these belligerents have the same adversary, the Malian army. In addition, it was suspected that there were bridges between them. “
These are old differences that are appearing
,” explains a fine expert on the region.
Indeed, there is rivalry between these two groups to control areas in central Mali. But there is another important divergence: the ex-rebellion, one of which is pro-independence, after being defeated by the Malian army in the town of Kidal, is looking for ways to take the fight to the south of Mali. However, the Jnim jihadists have another ambition: the application of sharia law throughout Malian territory. Other clashes are to be feared.
Read alsoMali: at least 18 civilians killed in Diankabou during a military operation
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