Predation et violence au Mali: elites statutaires peules et logiques de domination dans la region de Mopti

This article analyses the historical construction of political tensions in the region of Mopti, while stressing the conflict dynamics that revolve around statutory Fulani groups and the transformations in the political economy of the rural communities. The formation of religious armed groups with ill-defined contours has helped to reverse the balance of power with some local elites, which are now less able to impose their authority. In addition, the article demonstrates the blocking of democratic representation incapable of easing tensions. Fulani elites from the dominant ruling groups have managed to redeploy in the new electoral arena since the establishment of the democratisation process and thus to gain control of elected positions, often to the detriment of the subaltern categories. Finally, this article shows that the role of the state in the region is widely perceived in a negative way.