Mali votes in constitutional change referendum

Votes are being counted in Mali from a referendum on changing the constitution that military rulers and regional powers have said will pave the way to elections and a return to civilian rule.

The military government, which seized power in coups in 2020 and 2021, promised to hold the referendum as part of a transition to democracy under pressure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Voting took place on Sunday and provisional results are expected within 72 hours but Presidential elections are scheduled for February 2024.

Interim President Assimi Goita said was convinced this referendum will pave the way for a new Mali.

Some of the changes in the committee-drafted constitution are contentious with opponents insisting they would give the president sweeping powers.