Embattled nation strives to reclaim its democratic credentials after coup and amid violence but heading Into Mali elections that seek some stability

Polling officials among six abducted in northern Mali

AFP – Gunmen abducted five polling staff and a local official Saturday in the northern Malian town of Tessalit, a week before a presidential election meant to restore the country’s unity, a local official said. The poll workers include an elected Tessalit official.