Mali president
Mali gears up for elections
Mali scrambles to be ready for Sunday's 'fresh start' vote.
The deal could pave the way for Malian government troops to return to the rebel-held town of Kidal.
Islamist insurgents launched a surprise raid in the heart of the Malian town of Gao on Sunday.
The AU and West African blocs slammed the interference of the army in Mali politics on Wednesday.
UN Security Council warns of sanctions after arrest of Cheik Modibo Diarra.
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon recommended "offensive military operations" in Mali.
The UNSC urged countries to present a military intervention plan within 45 days.
Extremists imposing Islamic law in Mali's north are abusing human rights, the UN says.
Mali's caretaker president Dioncounda Traore was beaten up after protesters stormed his palace on Monday.