Malian officers upset with a government reshuffle have detained the president and prime minister at an army camp outside the capital
Once considered a beacon of democracy and stability in Africa, Mali in recent years has been dogged by a coup, civil war and Islamist terrorism
Mali’s parliamentary elections, which takes place amid an upsurge in violence by rebels, mark the country’s steps to recovery after a coup last year.
Two journalists with Radio France Internationale (RFI) were found dead on Saturday after being kidnapped by armed men while working in Mali.
Insurgents have launched a fresh attack against the Malian army in Kidal, forcing President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita to cut his France trip short.
UN troops have taken over security duties from African soldiers in Mali just four weeks ahead of planned elections.
UN soldiers will take over from African troops in Mali after Ban Ki-moon highlighted the lack of training among the West African peacekeepers.
Mali is hurrying to organise key elections in less than 40 days following a ceasefire deal between the government and separatist Tuareg rebels.
Mali’s presidential election will be held on July 28, according to a draft law adopted by the Cabinet.
Russia has revealed it is supplying guns to Mali’s government, while French troops have discovered a massive homemade bomb in Gao, north of Mali.