Suspect in attack on Mali leader dies in custody

A man accused of trying to stab Mali’s interim president, Assimi Goïta, last week has died in hospital while under guard, the government says.

The assailant, who has not been identified, was arrested after the failed stabbing, which took place while Mr Goïta was attending prayers in a mosque.

A government statement said the man’s health had deteriorated in custody and he was taken to hospital, where he died.

There are no particular details about his health prior to the incident.

The cause of death is said to be under investigation.

Mr Goïta has led two coups in Mali over the past year.