UN Security Council condemns arrest of Mali interim government leaders

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - UN Security Council members on Wednesday "strongly" condemned the arrest of the leaders of Mali’s transition government by the military.

They demanded the safe, immediate and unconditional release of all officials detained and urged the defense and security forces to return to their barracks without delay.

Council members "reaffirmed their support for the civilian-led transition and called for its immediate resumption."

President Bah N'Daw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane, who are under detention at a military camp, announced their resignations Wednesday, according to media reports.

Both leaders were transported late Monday by force to the Kati military camp -- the junta's stronghold, after the appointment of a new government.

Mali has experienced multiple coups and is currently in transition following the overthrow of former President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita by the military junta last August.