With the recent events in Mali, political activities have all but ground to a halt. The youth were not to be deterred and PACP kept its promise to host a youth soccer match that had been planned before the coup.

At about 4pm, the about 200 residents gathered from Bamako Communes four and five onto the Kalaban-coura Stadium field to watch the soccer match.Before the match PACP youth leader Sibiri spoke to the crowds. He told them how now more than ever, it was necessary to speak for democracy to be restored.

The match was between the two youth teams AJSK and ASB. The match was well played by both sides and ended in a penalty shootout. ASB claimed sweet victory by winning 1-0 on a penalty shootout.The prize, a big trophy and a goat 🙂

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The match was a testament that despite the activities on the political scene, life continues on the same path as before for many Malians. I can understand why. Malians have been marginalized for so long that while they prefer democracy, all they hope is their leaders don’t make their already bad situations worse.

Malians need to be awakened so that they can start influencing their futures. Their lives in Mali and the path it takes is very dependent on the political leaders in power. Mali needs a strong honest leader who can motivate its youth, bring change in all its sectors and restore faith in the political system. Here’s hoping for a resolution to the crisis and for free and fair elections to be held soon. 

Vive la démocratie! (Long Live Democracy)

Vive le Mali! (Long Live Mali)

Divisés, nous perdons tous! Unis, nous gagnons tous! (Divided, we all lose! United, we all win!)