On August 18, 2020, reports of a coup attempt by the country's military spread throughout Mali, stoking fear amongst residents and diplomats. Thus far, The Intelligence Ledger has successfully confirmed that components of the Malian Armed Forces in Kati have declared hostilities with the government. It remains to be seen, however, how other units will respond.
The French and Norwegian embassies have issued warnings to their respective citizens in Mali's capital to remain indoors as the situation unfolds. The Norwegian's have alerted their constituents to the situation by notifying them that there is a, "mutiny in the Armed Forces and troops are on their way to Bamako."
Mali has been in a state of chaos for the past year, as President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita struggles to retain his grip on power. A failed war against jihadists, receding economy, and corruption has turned the people against the government. Today's events appear to be the side-effect of these issues.
The Intelligence Ledger will update this briefing as more information becomes available.