The president of the “Don’t Touch My Money” (Dôremê té bôh Alà) movement, Mohamed Sacko, remains missing after being abducted by armed, hooded men in broad daylight near the Ministry of National Education in Bamako. His continued disappearance has ignited widespread concern, with civil society groups and human rights organizations calling for immediate action and accountability from the Malian government.
Sacko, a vocal critic of the government’s economic policies, became a well-known figure in Mali for his strong opposition to the controversial telecommunications tax hike that was implemented in early March 2025. The new tax, which sharply increased the cost of mobile phone top-ups and mobile money transactions, has exacerbated the economic challenges faced by ordinary Malians already struggling with rising inflation and chronic power shortages.
In the wake of the telecommunications tax hike, Sacko led the “Don’t Touch My Money” movement, a burgeoning citizen-led platform aimed at challenging economic policies that activists and critics alike view as oppressive and detrimental to the public. The movement quickly gained momentum, with Sacko becoming its face and voice, rallying tens of thousands of Malians who are frustrated with the increasing cost of living.
On March 11, 2025, Sacko was officially named president of the movement, cementing his role as a prominent figure in the growing national resistance against the rising cost of essential services. However, less than 24 hours after assuming leadership, Sacko was abducted by unidentified men while walking near the Ministry of National Education in Bamako. Eyewitnesses reported seeing Sacko being forcibly placed into an unmarked vehicle by armed individuals, who quickly fled the scene, leaving behind no clues about their identity or motives.
The abduction of Sacko has sent shockwaves throughout the country, with numerous civil society organizations demanding his immediate release. Human rights groups have condemned the kidnapping, warning that it represents a dangerous escalation in the government’s attempts to suppress opposition and dissent. Many fear that the abduction is linked to Sacko’s outspoken criticism of the telecommunications tax, which has sparked public protests and widespread anger.
No group has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping, and authorities have so far offered few details about the ongoing investigation. Sacko’s family and supporters are calling for swift action from the Malian government to ensure his safe return and to hold those responsible for his abduction accountable.
Sacko’s disappearance is part of a broader pattern of increasing repression in Mali, where activists and political leaders critical of the government have faced threats and intimidation. While some speculate that the government may be involved in or at least complicit in Sacko’s abduction due to his prominent role in the protests, there is currently no concrete evidence to support this claim.
The “Don’t Touch My Money” movement has continued to rally support, with many Malians joining protests and social media campaigns demanding the safe release of Sacko. The abduction has sparked fears of further government crackdowns on dissent, as well as growing concerns about the future of civil liberties and political freedoms in Mali.
As of now, the whereabouts of Mohamed Sacko remain unknown, and his supporters are urging international human rights organizations to pressure the Malian government for answers. The situation continues to unfold, with both domestic and international observers closely monitoring developments.
