The military junta that seized power promised to hold a national convention to determine the country's future. Meanwhile international pressure to restore civilian rule continues. The military leaders, who overthrew Mali's democratically elected president, will invite the political class and all civil society representatives to decide what path to take ‘in a consensual manner, democratically and in all freedom, Capt. Amadou Sanogo, the junta leader, said onTuesday. Mali has a history of controversy surrounding presidential elections. Rebels have been given until Monday to hand over power or face sanctions of:- closed borders except for humanitarian purposes, - denied access to neighbouring ports - freeze regional bank accounts - suspend participation in cultural and sporting events. Historically Mali has been more threatened by tribal insurgencies than by terrorist threats and has been one of the largest recipients in the region of military training and assistance from the United States.(see this weeks INSIGHT article)

Pray: the changes and turmoil will peacefully bring about economic favour in this devastatingly poor country. May the Mali have confidence in their leaders. (Job 5:9-16)

More: http://edition.cnn.com/2012/04/04/world/africa/mali-unrest/index.html