The French government assured, Friday, August 19, to remain fully committed to the release of journalist Olivier Dubois, kidnapped in Mali. “The withdrawal of operation “Barkhane” from Mali in no way diminishes the mobilization of France to free Mr. Olivier Dubois”assured the deputy spokesman for foreign affairs, François Delmas, a few days after the departure of the last French soldiers in Mali.
“Every effort is being made to obtain the release of our compatriot”he insisted, as Sunday will mark the 500e Olivier Dubois’ day of captivity.
Only French hostage in the world
The freelance journalist, who has lived and worked in Mali since 2015, himself announced his abduction in a video posted on social networks on May 5, 2021.
He explained there that he was kidnapped on April 8 in Gao, in northern Mali, by the Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM), the main jihadist alliance in the Sahel, linked to Al-Qaeda. He is the only French hostage listed in the world.
His family has appealed to send a postcard to President Emmanuel Macron as the 500e day of captivity to ask him when Olivier Dubois would be released.
The deputy foreign affairs spokesman assured that the French authorities maintained regular contact with his relatives. He reiterated that when it comes to kidnappings, “Discretion is an essential condition for the effectiveness of State action and the safety of persons”.