Algeria expresses concern re situation in Mali

Mali rebels The Algerian government renewed its calls on Mali for a speedy restoration of the constitutional order on Sunday, as Mali’s separatist rebels have swept across northern Mali, capturing the fabled desert outpost of Timbuktu in a dramatic bid to carve out a vast new Sahara state.
According to a statement issued by Algerian spokesperson of the ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amar Belani on Sunday, Algeria underlined that a quick restoration of the constitutional order in Mali was a "political requirement" that will revive the democratic process with a legitimate political leadership in that country.
Showing its concerns about the situation in Mali, Algeria called for immediate cessation of hostilities.
Meanwhile, Mali's Tuareg rebels claimed control of the legendary desert town of Timbuktu on Sunday, part of a dramatic push across the north, as the disorganised junta indicated it was ready to cede some power.
Tuareg rebels assisted by Islamist fighters have swept across much of northern Mali since renegade soldiers staged a coup on March 22, saying they were fed up with the government's handling of the Tuareg's fight for an independent homeland.
But since the coup, the rebels have seized several towns, including Kidal and then Gao, the regional capital that had served as the army headquarters for the entire northern region.
Timbuktu was the last major town in Mali's north not to have fallen into rebel hands.
Announcing the "end of Malian occupation", the MNLA (Azawad National Liberation Movement) said in a statement it would ensure "order and administration".
The town of about 50,000 residents is a United Nations World Heritage site, nicknamed the "pearl of the desert".
Mali's political situation is growing increasingly chaotic after the internationally condemned coup, which led President Amadou Toumani Toure to flee. He is in hiding in the capital Bamako but has said he is safe.
On Sunday, the coup leader Captain Amadou Sanogo, declared Mali's constitution "restored" and announced the reinstatement of state institutions, promising elections in which the junta would not take part.