Ousted Malian president released by Coup plotters

Former Malian President, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita has regained his freedom. Taken captive days back by soldiers during a coup, he was released on Thursday August 27, 2020.

The military group that took over the country says he “was freed this morning, (and) he has returned to his home,” but provided no further detail.

The country’s National Committee for the Salvation of the People (CNSP), a group of soldiers that ordered that Keita be taken captive continues to control the country. He was forced to resign at gunpoint.

Keita’s release is believed to be as a result of pressure from the international community that has largely criticised the military takeover, applying sanctions on the country.

Media reports however indicate that his presence at his residence is yet to be confirmed.

France and the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS remain key actors, and had sent a delegation to Bamako over the weekend to negotiate with the coup leaders.

The military junta has asked to rule the country for a three-year period while preparing for a transition to civilian rule.

Mimi Mefo Info