Mali, intervention and the enduring appeal of 'la Francafrique'

 Either way, it's proof that the long and complicated relationship between France and Africa is far from over, despite what the politicians say writes SIMON ALLISON.

Franafrique is dead, declared French President Francois Hollande shortly after taking office last year. This was a momentous statement. Hollande's predecessors, without exception, revelled in the cosy, corrupt relationship between France and some of Africa's most unstable democracies and worst dictatorships.