BAMAKO, April 27 (Xinhua) -- Malian Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maiga said Monday that the terrorist attacks carried out on Saturday in several cities across the country were not merely isolated incidents, but were aimed at "seizing power, dismantling the country's republican institutions, and ending the transition process."
Speaking at a press briefing, Maiga said Mali was plunged into mourning by simultaneous attacks in several localities, which killed Defense Minister Sadio Camara, along with other civilian and military victims, and left others wounded.
The attackers sought to spread fear and doubt, undermine national cohesion and weaken Mali's determination, he said, noting that these objectives have failed.
Maiga said that under the leadership of the transitional president and supreme commander of the armed forces, Mali's military has delivered a "forceful response," neutralizing hundreds of terrorists across the country.
The asymmetric nature of terrorist threats requires Mali to continuously adapt its security arrangements, he said, adding that lessons must be drawn from the April 25 attacks, with effective measures reinforced and necessary adjustments made to enhance security.
Mali's transitional government has declared a two-day national mourning period starting Monday in honor of Camara, who was killed on Saturday in the attacks. ■
