The temporary suspension of the joint military operation by the French government between its troops and the Malian forces is being seen as creating an opening in the ongoing fight against insurgency.

France however said its decision is linked to the political transition, a measure that will be reviewed in the coming days as the situation in Bamako evolves.

France calls on the new Malian authorities to quickly implement the recommendations of the ECOWAS summit in Accra to bring the transition to a successful conclusion.

Dr. Aly Tounkara, a Malian security analyst highlighted some of the major areas of joint operation that will affected the most.