Mali's presidential elections - in 90 seconds

Malians are set to go to the polls on 28 July to vote in presidential elections which are considered crucial for the West African nation's return to constitutional rule and stability.

It is hoped the elections will end months of political crisis which started when soldiers overthrew President Amadou Toumani Toure in March 2012, allowing separatist rebels and Islamist militants to seize the north of the country.

France sent its troops in January 2013 to drive out the militants from the northern cities of Timbuktu, Kidal and Gao.

A UN peacekeeping mission took over from the French and African troops on 1 July, and will support the army in securing the poll.

But will democracy succeed in one of the poorest countries in the world?

BBC Africa's Chakuchanya Harawa reports.