Ex-leader of Mali Moussa Traore dies

Mali’s former president Moussa Traore, who ruled the West African nation for more than 22 years, has died at age 83, according to his son Idrissa Traore.

He did not give details on the cause of death.

Mr Traore seized power in a military coup in 1968, eight years after Mali gained independence from France, and amid growing discontent with thenpresident Modibo Keita, the country’s first president.

Mr Traore and other officers set up the Military Committee for National Liberation, abolished the constitution and established a regime.

Mr Traore ruled the country as its military leader until 1979 when he installed himself as civilian president of a one-party state. He was the sole presidential candidate in elections held in 1985.

Mr Traore was ousted in a coup in 1991 after days of protests in which at least 200 people were killed.