The announcement of a promised return to civilian rule came shortly after separatist rebels , who had captured large areas of Mali 's vast Sahara region in the north of the country , declared independence for a region they call Azawad . France welcomes a deal by coup leaders to restore power to a civilian government . The parties agree to set up a transition process leading to a presidential election . The election comes after rebels declare victory for themselves in northern Mali . The international community had imposed restrictions on Mali amid turmoil .
France welcomes a deal by coup leaders to restore power to a civilian government . The parties agree to set up a transition process leading to a presidential election . The election comes after rebels declare victory for themselves in northern Mali . The international community had imposed restrictions on Mali amid turmoil .