ECOWAS Threatens New Sanctions on Mali Junta

West African bloc ECOWAS says it will reimpose sanctions on junta leaders in Mali if they block efforts to restore civilian rule.

The ECOWAS Commission said Monday it condemns what it called “continued interference with the transition” by junta chief Captain Amadou Sanogo and his allies.

On Saturday, two ECOWAS envoys quit talks with the junta because of an impasse over who will head a transitional government.

The 40-day mandate of interim president Dioncounda Traore runs out next week, and Sanogo reportedly wants to be installed as Mali’s transitional leader.

The regional bloc’s communications director, Sonny Ugoh says the talks with the junta are not over.