FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 23, 2012
CONTACT: Deborah Hakes +1 404 420 5124

Carter Center Statement on Mali

The Carter Center strongly condemns the seizure of power in Mali by elements of the military.  The Carter Center calls for the immediate and peaceful return to constitutional order and the establishment of a short transition toward the scheduled elections.

"Mali is a shining example of a country struggling to put democratic principles into action," said former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. "Control of the military should immediately return to the democratically elected civilian government so that the country can continue its path toward lasting peace, development, and democracy. The safety of President Touré and other state officials must be ensured." 

The rebellion in the North should not be allowed to destabilize the country further.  The path forward remains a negotiated settlement, ceasefire, and the disarmament of rebels.