West African leaders have imposed sanctions on Mali after the country’s military government announced a long delay to elections originally planned for next month.
The West African regional bloc, Ecowas agreed to close borders with Mali as well as implement a range of economic sanctions.
Mali's military government in response says that it was closing its land and air borders with Ecowas and recalling its ambassadors from member states.
The junta says it strongly condemned illegal sanctions imposed on the country.
Mali’s military rulers now say elections could take place in five years - a delay the West African bloc deems unacceptable.