Attack on interim President of Mali condemned
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Thousands of Malians have sought refuge from fighting in neighbouring countries
An attack on the interim President of Mali on Monday has been strongly condemned by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
Dioncounda Traoré was reportedly beaten unconscious by protesters who were angry at the extension of his mandate which was due to expire on Monday.
UN Spokesperson Martin Nesirky says the Secretary-General is urging everyone in Mali to refrain from any actions that may undermine the transitional process and endanger peace and stability in the country.
"The Secretary-General strongly condemns yesterday's attack against Mali's interim President Dioncounda Traoré. The attack follows intense mediation efforts by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) aimed at restoring constitutional order in Mali. The Secretary-General urges the Malian military and security institutions to fulfil their primary function of protecting the state and its legitimate interim authorities, and underscores the need for those responsible for the attack to be held accountable." (Duration: 29")
Mr. Traoré, former Speaker of Parliament, was sworn in as Mali's interim leader in April as part of the efforts to restore constitutional order after soldiers seized power on 22 March.
