Photo: RFI/Pierre Rene-Worms

A supporter of presidential candidate Soumaïla Cissé .

With Mali about to go to the polls in the first round of Presidential elections, Christian Aid urges all parties involved in the process to work towards ensuring the ballot passes peacefully.

It warns that any outbreaks of violence will have a serious impact on the humanitarian work that is providing a crucial lifeline to communities in both the north and south of the country.

Yacouba Kone, Christian Aid's country director in Mali, said: 'We are already struggling to operate normally due to the prevailing insecurity. Any violence around the election will make matters far worse.

'Most NGOs here have already drawn up contingency plans to put into operation if violence does occur, but movement will be limited and supplies may not reach those in most need.

'The north is still reeling from the conflict of the past year, so people there are less likely to take to the streets. But tensions are already running high in the capital Bamako, and other cities such as Kayes, Sikasso and Mopti may well be more volatile.

'At worst, we could see our existing operations disrupted, with many more people needing help if fighting does break out.'

The elections were scheduled to take place last year but were delayed after an insurgency and subsequent military coup.