President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, who was captured in a military coup in Mali, was released by rebels, the Jeune Afrique portal reported, citing the President's family.
It is reported that the rebels released the President on Thursday night at approximately 3.00 local time (6.00 Moscow time). He was taken to his residence in Sebenikoro, which is guarded by the rebels.
The revolt in Mali took place against the backdrop of civil unrest, which is led by the opposition party "June 5 Movement - Rally of Patriotic Forces" (M5-RFP) demanded the resignation of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. On Wednesday, the first official meeting of the putschists and representatives of the M5-RFP took place.
The revolt in Mali began on August 18 at a military base near the capital Bamako. The rebels announced the arrest of the President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and the Prime Minister Boubou Cisse. Later, the President announced the resignation and dissolution of the Parliament and government. The military has called for a political transformation in the country leading to general elections. In a statement released on August 20, the coup organizers said that Mali would be governed during the transition period by a specially appointed President, who can be either a military or a civilian.
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Photo: EPA / LUDOVIC MARIN / POOL MAXPPP OUT / TASS
Based on materials from RIA Novosti