Mali's transitional Prime Minister Choguel Maiga, has reacted to the recent sanctions imposed on him and 148 other officials of his government by the regional body, ECOWAS.

Addressing a cabinet meeting Monday, the PM said his country counts on the support of ECOWAS and did not expect sanctions.

The body has sanctioned some members of the transitional government for attempting to delay the return of the country to civilian rule through election in February next year.

Prime Minister Maiga also commented on the France-Mali split.