Soldiers killed as Mali rebels defy governmentFrom RUDD KONTE in Bamako, MaliBAMAKO, (CAJ News) – ARMED groups are openly violating ceasefire agreements by carrying out attacks at checkpoints occupied by the Malian Armed Forces, killing at least 11 officers in the defiance. The armed groups are opposed to the installation of the Taoudenit interim authorities, which was originally scheduled for Monday, and represents a crucial step in the implementation of the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement in Mali. The United Nations Integrated Multifaceted Mission for the Stabilization of Mali (MINUSMA) denounced the violations. “MINUSMA strongly condemns these actions, which represent violations of the ceasefire and expose their perpetrators to sanctions,” said a MINUSCA spokesperson. The UN Security Council established MINUSMA in 2013 to support political processes in the West African country.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 08, 2017 06:11 UTC