Though results of Mali’s presidential run-off are not to be released till Wednesday, the officialization of the sweeping victory of Ibrahim Boubacar Keiti (IBK) has turned to be a mere formality, as his rival Soumaila Cisse had admitted defeat on Monday evening and confirmed on Tuesday that he would not protest over “serious frauds” during the poll.
Despite frauds repeatedly denounced by his camp, the 63-year- old former finances minister told a press conference on Tuesday that it is the responsibility of his allies to provide opportunity for the newly elected president to get to work quickly.
Considering the fragile situation in the country, my allies and I do not want to open a page of protest and unrest in Mali,” said Cisse, “therefore, we solemnly declare to accept the results that the government will proclaim. I will not file petition to the Supreme Court.”
Excluding the possibility of entering government, Cisse vowed to form an opposition.