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Burkina Faso coup leader now insists on staying in power

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coup

Burkina Faso coup leader Gen Gilbert Diendere has insisted on remaining in power until polls are held.

The former chief of staff of former President Blaise Compaore made the proposal at talks brokered by West African mediators in the Capital, Ouagadougou.

One of the mediators had earlier on Saturday made comments on the possibility of the Interim government led by Michel Kafando being reinstated back to power.

At least 10 people have been killed in clashes that erupted after the coup was staged on Thursday while hundreds of others have been wounded.

The current position is a stark contradiction to the optimism shown on Saturday by one of the mediators, Benin President Yayi Boni, who had suggested that the presidential guard might give up power.

Meanwhile, violence erupted on Sunday at the hotel in Ouagadougou where the talks have been taking place. About 50 coup supporters burst into the Hotel lobby, injuring several people.

Outside the building opponents of the coup held a protest but were later dispersed by security forces.

Mr Kafando who was initially held by the coup leaders has been freed now. However, there is no communication on whether Prime Minister Isaac Zida who was also detained with him will be freed.

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