The latest massacre of Fulani villagers in central Mali has highlighted the dramatic collapse of a once peaceful state

A low turnout and vote abuses has marred elections meant to complete Mali’s democratic transition.

Early indications have revealed a record turnout in much of the country as Mali’s voters choose their new leader.

Mali is hurrying to organise key elections in less than 40 days following a ceasefire deal between the government and separatist Tuareg rebels.

Mali’s new interim leader has threatened to wage total war on Tuareg rebels and religious extremist groups controlling the north of the country.

People in Mali have begun fleeing the Tuareg-seized city of Gao as empty prison cells and looted Red Cross warehouses have become the way of life.

Mali’s interim president will be sworn in on Thursday, ending a period of military rule that saw Tuaregs and Islamists seize half of the country.

The conflict that has erupted in northern Mali has resulted in nearly 200 000 people fleeing their homes.

Islamists are gaining ground in Mali, jostling with Tuareg rebels for control as the nation’s military rulers face shortages from sanctions.

Malian coup leaders face increasing pressure as lawmakers and opposition figures call for them to go and Tuareg rebels close in on a key town.

Rebels in the north of Mali have been moving south to take up state military positions, while renegade soldiers demanded the president’s arrest.

Renegade Malian soldiers have gone on television to declare their seizure of power in protest the government’s failure to quell a northern rebellion.

Officials from Burkina Faso have confirmed that more than 1 500 people have fled a Tuareg rebellion and reprisal attacks in Mali.

Hundreds of former Tuareg rebels on Tuesday formally joined Mali’s peace process at a disarmament ceremony in Kidal, marking the end of an uprising.