In a significant development, the African Union (AU) has expressed deep regret over the decision by the military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This move follows an outcry within the region, raising concerns about its implications.
Niger has officially notified ECOWAS of its withdrawal from the regional bloc, following similar actions by Mali and Burkina Faso. The foreign ministry of Niger sent a formal note to ECOWAS, marking the initiation of the one-year period required for withdrawal to take effect, during which countries remain bound by their membership obligations under the bloc’s statutes.
The AU, through its commission president, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has called for intensified dialogue between ECOWAS leadership and the three countries that have decided to withdraw. These nations have accused ECOWAS of posing a threat to their sovereignty and have criticised the bloc for deviating from its founding principles.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, learnt, with deep regret, the announcement of the withdrawal of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS.The African Union Commission Chairperson calls for the pooling of all efforts so that the irreplaceable Unity of ECOWAS be preserved and African solidarity be enhanced.The African Union Commission Chairperson calls upon the Regional Leaders to intensify dialogue between the leaders of ECOWAS and the three above mentioned countries. Source: African Union
Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger were founding members of ECOWAS in 1975. However, their membership was suspended by the bloc, and sanctions were imposed following military coups that ousted elected civilian governments in these nations. ECOWAS has consistently called for a return to democratic rule in these countries and has not ruled out the possibility of military intervention if necessary to restore constitutional order.
The joint statement issued by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger emphasised their view that ECOWAS had come under the influence of foreign powers and had betrayed its founding principles. They argued that the bloc was no longer aligned with the interests of its member states and peoples, citing its alleged failure to provide adequate support in addressing issues such as terrorism and insecurity within their borders.
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The decision to withdraw from ECOWAS has raised concerns about regional stability and the effectiveness of the bloc in addressing political and security challenges. It also highlights the complex dynamics of relationships between regional powers, external influences, and the aspirations of member states.
The AU has expressed its willingness to assist in facilitating dialogue and resolving the current impasse between ECOWAS and the three withdrawing countries. The situation remains fluid, and the future course of action will likely have significant implications for the political and security landscape in West Africa.
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