A new constitution is in force in Mali following the interim President, Colonel Assimi Goïta’s approval over the weekend.

The question now is how it will apply throughout the country as other concerns remain.

These relate to the acceptance of the new constitution by the former rebels in the North who prevented the referendum from being held in Kidal.

Also, does the new text authorise the transitional authorities to stand as candidates in future elections?

Oumar Konaré is a Malian lawyer who took part in the drafting of the new constitution.