Nigeria, May 20 -- On 13 May, Mali's military transitional authority decreed the dissolution of political parties. Although most of the country's nearly 300 parties were not functional, this is a major setback for Mali's prospects of remaining a multiparty democracy.

It is also a notable turning point in the transition that started five years ago, when a double military coup led by Mali's current leader, Assimi Goita, toppled the government. By closing down the democratic space, the military authorities risk worsening insecurity in the country, which already faces persistent jihadism and a recurrent rebellion in the north.

However, the country's political parties are fighting back. Whether this will make a difference in a region dominat...