08/29/2025
Open Letter to the International Community
Today, I wish to raise my voice in tribute not only to our beloved brother Moussa Mara, unjustly deprived of his freedom for having expressed his opinion, but also to our sister General Néma Sagara and all other political leaders and citizens who are currently detained in Mali for their ideas, their words, or their commitment.
I have known Moussa Mara for many years, and I remember vividly his visit to Atlanta, where his humility, openness, and love for Mali were evident. His imprisonment, like that of General Néma Sagara and many others, is a profound injustice that weakens our nation at a moment when unity and dialogue are most needed.
These arrests raise a fundamental question: how can a country move forward if its children, military leaders, politicians, and ordinary citizens are denied the right to share their thoughts, to question, and to contribute freely to the national debate? The diversity of opinions is not a danger—it is a wealth that strengthens democracy and builds peace.
Through this letter, I appeal to the international community to bear witness. Mali is going through a delicate and fragile period. If voices of reason, criticism, and patriotism are silenced, frustrations will only deepen and may push our nation toward greater instability.
We do not know what tomorrow holds. That is why each day must be dedicated to humility, mutual respect, and tolerance. Silencing those who love their country—whether politicians, soldiers, or ordinary citizens—only weakens our collective future. On the contrary, listening, engaging in dialogue, and allowing freedom of expression are the foundations of lasting peace and stability.
I therefore call for the immediate release of Moussa Mara, General Néma Sagara, and all political prisoners in Mali. Their contribution, rooted in patriotism and sincerity, is indispensable to the future of our nation.
History will judge us not only by our victories, but by the justice and humanity with which we treat one another.
Dr. Ramata Sissoo Cisse d
