BAMAKO, July 12 (NNN-AGENCIES) – Death toll of the two-day violent protests in Mali’s capital Bamako, increased to three, and at least 74 others were injured, local hospital authorities said.
There was also significant material damage, particularly in the country’s National Assembly, which was looted by protesters.
At least six leaders of the demonstrations were arrested Friday night and Saturday, said the 5 June Movement — Rally of Patriotic Forces (M5-RFP), organiser of the protests.
In a message published by the Malian presidency, President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, regretted the scenes of violence, and reaffirmed his “wish to continue the dialogue” with the protesters.
To ease the tension in the country, Keita made several proposals to end the crisis, which the protesters rejected and called for the appointment of a prime minister in its ranks and the resignation of Keita.
The capital was largely paralysed since Friday, when the demonstrations turned violent.– NNN-AGENCIES
