Secretary of State Mike Pompeo
Michael (Mike) Richard PompeoBelarus president says he would be open to handing over power after referendum Trump administration creeps further against Huawei chip production, affiliate group The Hill’s Morning Report – Democrats launch 11-week sprint until Nov. 3. With virtual convention MORE on Wednesday, the military coup in Mali called for the release of arrested government officials and their families, as well as assurances about their safety.
Pompeo marked Tuesday’s events as a ‘difficulty’ and called on ‘all political and military actors to work towards a restoration of constitutional government.’
“The United States strongly condemns the August 18 massacre in Mali, because we would condemn any forced seizure of power,” the secretary said in a statement.
“We urge all stakeholders in Mali to engage in peaceful dialogue, respect the rights of Malians to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly and reject violence.”
The Secretary’s remarks reflect condemnation from other international leaders and regional organizations, including the European Union, the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union.
Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita announced his resignation late Tuesday night after he was arrested along with the country’s prime minister by military officials leading the coup.
The military group, which identifies itself as the National Committee for the Salvation of People (CNSP), said in an address to the nation that it would oversee a political transition, new elections and a curfew, CNN reported.
A member of the CNSP, Colonel Major Ismael Wague, accused the Keita government of corruption and the failure of threats by extremist groups in the region, including grievances, CNN reported.
The coup was welcomed by anti-government protesters in the capital of Bami, Mali, who have taken to the streets since June and asked the president to resign, The Associated Press reported.
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