Younoussi Touré, Malian politician, Prime Minister of Mali

Younoussi Touré: A Distinguished Malian Statesman and Architect of Democracy

Younoussi Touré, born on 1 January 1939, is a prominent and influential Malian politician whose career has spanned several pivotal moments in the nation's democratic evolution. His extensive service across executive, legislative, and party leadership roles underscores his significant contributions to Malian governance and political development.

Pioneering Prime Ministership Under Alpha Oumar Konaré

Touré served with distinction as the Prime Minister of Mali from 9 June 1992 to 12 April 1993. This period was exceptionally significant for Mali as it marked a crucial transition from military rule to a new era of multi-party democracy. Notably, Younoussi Touré was the very first Prime Minister appointed by President Alpha Oumar Konaré, who was elected in 1992 following the end of the long-standing military regime of Moussa Traoré. Konaré's election and Touré's subsequent appointment as head of government symbolized Mali's renewed commitment to constitutional governance and democratic institutions, setting the foundational administrative framework for the nascent democratic republic.

Long-Serving President of the Union for the Republic and Democracy (URD)

Beyond his executive role, Younoussi Touré played a critical part in shaping Mali's multi-party political landscape through his leadership of the Union for the Republic and Democracy (URD). He presided over the URD, one of Mali's most influential and consistently significant political parties, for an extended period from 2003 to 2014. Under his stewardship, the URD solidified its position as a major force in Malian politics, often serving as a key opposition or coalition partner. The party is generally recognized for its commitment to liberal democratic principles and social justice, advocating for robust governance and national development.

Leadership in the National Assembly: A Period of Critical National Service

Touré's legislative career further highlights his enduring impact on Malian public life. He held the esteemed position of First Vice-President of the National Assembly of Mali from 2007 to 2012, a key role in the parliamentary leadership that involves assisting the President of the Assembly and overseeing legislative procedures. Following this, he ascended to the pinnacle of the legislative branch, serving as the President of the National Assembly from 2012 to 2013. This tenure was particularly challenging, coinciding with a period of profound political instability in Mali, including the 2012 coup d'état and subsequent efforts to restore constitutional order. As President of the National Assembly, Touré held a critical constitutional leadership role, guiding the legislative body through immense national challenges and underscoring his resilience and commitment to democratic institutions even amidst turmoil.

Frequently Asked Questions about Younoussi Touré

When was Younoussi Touré Prime Minister of Mali?
Younoussi Touré served as the Prime Minister of Mali from 9 June 1992 to 12 April 1993.
Who appointed Younoussi Touré as Prime Minister?
He was the first Prime Minister appointed by President Alpha Oumar Konaré, whose election in 1992 marked Mali's return to multi-party democracy.
What was the significance of Touré's Prime Ministership?
His appointment was highly significant as it occurred at the very beginning of Mali's democratic transition, under the first democratically elected president after years of military rule, establishing foundational administrative structures for the new republic.
What political party did Younoussi Touré lead?
Younoussi Touré was the President of the Union for the Republic and Democracy (URD), a prominent Malian political party, from 2003 to 2014.
What other key governmental roles did Younoussi Touré hold?
He held significant leadership positions within the Malian National Assembly, serving as First Vice-President from 2007 to 2012, and subsequently as President of the National Assembly from 2012 to 2013.