Human rights group urges jihadists to restore free movement in Mali

As jihadist groups impose a tightening grip on Mali, Amnesty International has issued an urgent appeal for the restoration of civilian freedoms and safe passage. The blockade around Bamako, now in its third week, has severely disrupted life in the capital and beyond.

The crisis escalated on April 30 when militants from the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) cut off critical road arteries leading to Bamako. The move has triggered widespread shortages, with the landlocked nation heavily reliant on road imports for essential supplies.