Malians Decide 2013

AP Photo

Malians turned out in droves to vote for a new president following the military coup that deposed the former civilian president. The vote, which is the first also following the military intervention by former colonial master France has been hailed as successful although some analyst have questioned if Mali was ready for such an exercise.

There are 27 candidates vying for the post of the president, but only four are seen as having any realistic chance winning the poll. Amongst these are three former prime ministers and a former finance minister. If there is no outright winner of yesterday's poll, a second round is scheduled on the 11th of August.

That Malians want a change in direction for their country is evident in the words of voter Daouda Bertet. Mr Bertet was quoted by the BBC as saying ''I have voted in several elections before but I have never seen so many people. It seems Malians have realised it is time for change and that voting can make a difference.''

Point 1

How realistic are you that these polls will bring the changes Malians are expecting?

Point 2.

What role can the AU play in helping the country buttress the gains if any are made as result of these elections and what will become of the vast amount of foreign troops stationed in Mali?

Point 3.

What are or rather what will be the most important issues for the president to focus on in his/her first 100 days in power?

Let us hear from the African panelist