Terrorist Group Forces Women to Wear Hijab on Malian Roads

Bamako - October 19, 2025 - A terrorist group operating in Mali has issued a new directive forcing all women traveling on public roads to wear the hijab, further highlighting the growing influence of armed groups in the country.

On Friday, October 17, Bina Diarra, spokesperson for the Support Group for Islam and Muslims, released a video statement targeting road transport companies. He instructed that women not wearing the hijab must not be transported, warning that companies failing to comply would face bans on operations. He also announced the lifting of the suspension of Diarra Transport, Mali’s largest transport company, which had been forced to cease operations since early September.

According to the terrorist spokesman, the company’s operations would resume only if it ceased involvement in disputes with the army and ensured that women without hijabs were not transported. The decree applies to all road users, not just commercial transport companies.

On October 18 and 19, buses were observed enforcing the directive, with all women passengers wearing the hijab under the watch of armed men deployed for checks.

Security analysts say the measure underscores the widening power of terrorists across Mali, as they increasingly dictate social and legal norms, while the transitional government appears unable to enforce its authority. Observers warn that this trend is contributing to a gradual Islamization of public life in the country.