The Political and Security Situation in Mali

The Political and Security Situation in Mali

Press Statement
Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
May 11, 2012

The United States is deeply concerned about the deteriorating political situation in Mali. We call on the junta leader Sanogo and the CNRD to step aside and allow for the return of full civilian rule. The CNRD’s continued interference in the government has undermined democracy in Mali, led to the de facto partition of the country, and crippled the ability of the country to respond to a developing humanitarian crisis in northern Mali.

We hold the CNRD directly responsible for the increasing suffering of the Malian people. The military needs to stand aside completely in order to let the interim administration led by President Dioncounda Traoré and Prime Minister Cheick Modibo Diarra govern freely and to organize presidential elections as expeditiously as possible. A strong, stable democratic government in Mali is essential in order for the country to deal successfully with its multiple economic, social, and security challenges.

The U.S. will maintain its targeted sanctions against Captain Sanogo and other CNRD leaders as well as the Malian government until the military stands down and democracy is returned to Mali.

ENDS

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