What led to the military coup in Mali in March 2012?

The military coup in Mali in March 2012 was primarily driven by deep-seated dissatisfaction within the army regarding the government’s handling of a conflict in the country's northern region.12

By 2012, Tuareg rebel activity had surged after many fighters returned to Mali well-armed following their involvement in the 2011 revolt in Libya. As these rebels successfully routed government forces from several northern towns, Malian soldiers expressed frustration, complaining that they lacked the necessary resources and weaponry to effectively counter the insurgency.34

This discontent culminated in an army mutiny on March 21, 2012, which rapidly escalated into a coup. The mutinying group seized power, suspended the constitution, and replaced the democratically elected government with the National Committee for the Recovery of Democracy and Restoration of the State.12