Mali's Defense Minister General Sadio Camara was killed during coordinated attacks on military installations across the country, sources told Al Jazeera.
His residence in the garrison town of Kati was attacked on Saturday by an al-Qaeda-linked group and Tuareg rebels. Camara was a central figure in the military government that came to power after coups in 2020 and 2021.
According to Al Jazeera correspondent Nicolas Haque, Camara was one of the most influential people in the military leadership. His death is a heavy blow to the Malian armed forces. The attackers entered his home in Kati with an explosive-laden vehicle.
Interim President Assimi Goita is reported to be safe. The attacks occurred in Bamako, Gao, Kidal, and Sevare. Residents say heavy gunfire is still heard in Kidal.
Expert Bourama Boukarti said the fight for territory will intensify in the coming days. Groups that once fought each other have now united against the Malian state. The African Union, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the US condemned the attacks.
