Mali protests at Ecowas deal for Djouncounda Traore to stay

Thousands of supporters of March’s coup in Mali have marched in protest at a regional deal for the interim civilian leader to remain in office for a year.

Djouncounda Traore’s initial mandate was due to expire on Monday. But West African leaders reached a deal with coup leader Capt Amadou Sanogo for Mr Traore to stay on to organise elections and end a northern rebellion. The deal also saw Capt Sanogo recognised as a former head of state with a salary and a mansion. The coup, and ensuing rebel seizure of northern Mali, have led many thousands of people to flee their homes. Aid agencies say they are extremely concerned about the humanitarian situation in Mali, which is also suffering from the regional drought.