His top rival, Soumaila Cisse, was a government minister in the 1990's who then ran the West African Monetary Union for seven years. Supporters say they trust his experience and management skills.
In a possible run-off, Cisse could have the support of the two other top candidates, or vice versa. They include ex-prime minister and longtime government heavyweight, Modibo Sidibe, and a relative unknown, Dramane Dembele, who is backed by Mali's largest political party.
Among the other first-time candidates getting some traction are the lone female candidate, Aichata Chada Haidara, and the mayor of Bamako's Commune IV district, Moussa Mara.
"This country's problems come from bad leadership and bad governance," Mara remarked. "How do we make it so that the next leader does what he promises, that he involves and informs citizens? So that the citizen, instead of being just a spectator, becomes an actor in the building of this country? This is how we will develop Mali."
Mara, at just 38 years old, is one of the youngest candidates -- a not unpopular trait as the country clamors for a fresh start.
"In this country, we need to promote youth leadership," he said. "We need to work in truth and transparency. We need to learn to respect public wealth and rise above personal interests."
Mali had just a few short months to prepare for this crucial election, and authorities confess that a few corners had to be cut.
最新
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25