Stage set for Mali Speaker to take power from junta
The stage has been set for the Malian junta’s departure and the induction of the Speaker of parliament Diounconda Traore as interim head of state, after ousted President Amadou Toumani Toure’s formal resignation.
Toure’s resignation on Sunday is part of an agreement ECOWAS brokered with Captain Amadou Sanogo and his military junta that overthrew the President nearly three weeks ago.
ECOWAS has since lifted sanctions imposed because of the coup.
Burkiina Faso’s Foreign Minister, Djibril Bassole, who led the ECOWAS negotiations, confirmed a letter of resignation had been submitted.
In line with Mali’s constitution, the interim leadership will prepare for elections within 40 days.
But it’s expected to be in office much longer due to prevailing security and political developments in Mali with the occupation of the north by rebels.
The National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) rebels over the weekend declared independence for the Azawad region, but no country has recognized it.
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