US calls on Mali coup leader to step aside
Washington, 13 May – (ANA) - The U.S. yesterday called on the officer who led a military coup in Mali in March to step aside and allow for the full return to civilian rule. The State Department said the coup leaders had undermined democracy and hampered the West African nation's ability to respond to the humanitarian crisis in northern Mali. "A strong, stable democratic government in Mali is essential in order for the country to deal successfully with its multiple economic, social and security challenges," the department said in a statement. The military nominally handed over power to Dioncounda Traore in April, but the agreement runs out later this month. Captain Amadou Sanogo, who led the coup, wants to take back power once Traore's 40-day mandate is up, aides said on Thursday. (ANA)
FA/ANA/13 May 2012----------