By Prensa Latina,
Nouakchott : Tension prevailed in Mauritania Friday but without significant violece after President Sidi Ould Cheikh Abdallahi was defeated by a coup d’etat and a military regime was established.
Although some business reopened and other activities continue, the environment in Nouakchott, the capital, and other regions of the country is basically divided between reactions in favor and against the leaders of the coup.
Sources from the overthrown Head of State assured that his wife and three children returned home last Thursday after been held hostage at the presidential palace by the rebels.
They also noted that Abdallahi, his Prime Minister Yahya Ould Ahmed El Waghej and other top ranking officials are still under arrest at the garrison of the presidential guard.
On Thursday General Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz, self-appointed President of the Higher State Council received the support of citizens critical of Abdallahi’s procedure while soldiers dispersed another demonstration in rejection of the coup.
However, the new authorities assured that they have the situation under control and reiterated that governmental authority will rule this North African country until having the suitable conditions to call for free and clear elections as soon as possible.