Malians approve constitutional changes in Referendum.

The country’s military rulers and regional powers say the vote will lead to elections in February next year and the return to civilian rule.

Ahead of the referendum, there were concerns that the new constitution would give sweeping powers to the president, who will now have the right to hire and fire the prime minister and cabinet members.

Under the changes, a second parliamentary chamber is set to be created to enhance wider political representation. The constitutional changes also designate Mali as a secular state, a move opposed by some Islamic clerics.

The country has seen two military coups since August 2020, when President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta was overthrown.