Armed groups in northern Mali battled each other again Wednesday, leaving at least four people dead only days before the fighters are to sign a peace agreement with the Malian government.
The renewed attacks took place between members of a coalition of separatist rebel fighters and a pro-government militia, according to spokesmen for both groups. The violence erupted as several dozen dignitaries began arriving in the capital of Bamako ahead of Friday's scheduled peace deal signing.
Mossa Ag Attaher with the rebel coalition said that there were four people killed in the village of Ikadewan. It was not immediately possible to independently confirm his toll.
The zone has been a source of tension between the two sides after a pro-government militia took over the town of Menaka. On Wednesday, Ag Attaher again urged the militia fighters to leave or face further violence.
"If the militia does not leave Menaka through dialogue, we are going to use all means necessary to make them leave because this belongs to us and is recognized by the cease-fire accords and the international community," he warned.
The growing number of attacks in northern Mali in recent weeks has cast into doubt the future of a peace agreement many hope would bring stability after several chaotic years.
The deal came after months of negotiations in Algeria. Wome say the most recent violence may be an attempt by the separatists to gain more ground before the signing ceremony. Still, some have feared that the clashes could result in the peace deal unraveling completely.
This content appears as provided to The Globe by the originating wire service. It has not been edited by Globe staff.