The referendum, which will allow voters to accept or reject a draft already contested by political opponents, was expected to take place in March but was postponed. The authorities cited organizational issues, stating that they needed time to establish representations of the election management body in all regions of the country.
The draft constitution is part of the transitional government's reforms aimed at creating a legislative basis for establishing civilian authority in the country.
"With this project, we are betting on the future of our state, the restoration of its authority, and the regained trust between institutions and citizens," interim president Assimi Goita said, adding: "Now is the time to confirm our commitment to the new Mali."
Provisional results are expected within 72 hours of the polls. If approved, the constitution will strengthen the powers of the president and create new regions in line with a 2015 agreement with Tuareg separatists.
The referendum will also decide whether French will remain Mali's official language or be downgraded to one of the country's working languages.
The transitional government came to power in Mali in May 2021 through a military coup. Last year, military leaders delayed elections until 2026. In response to this move, the West African ECOWAS bloc imposed economic and financial sanctions against Mali's authorities. The sanctions were highly criticized by the government and sparked waves of condemnation among the Malian people.
However, they were lifted after the government announced a new election timetable in June last year with elections scheduled to be held in 2024.