Strategypage explains:
There is great popular anger at the corrupt and inept politicians, and the politicians are shifting blame as quickly as they can. Everyone says they want to reclaim the north, but there's no enthusiasm for letting foreigners (including the UN) do it, or getting organized so the more numerous southern Malians can do it. The West is leaning towards taking unilateral action, as the al Qaeda controlled north turns into another terrorist sanctuary. The UN is stalemated over the issue.
The "West," I assume--as I have from the beginning--means the French Foreign Legion--plus French, American, and British special forces and aircraft; and American logistics.
How long before the French realize nobody else can do the job?