Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger exit from ECOWAS

In a joint statement issued on Sunday, January 28, 2024, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have announced their immediate withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The decision came as a result of the listed countries being under military rule currently following coups that ousted their civilian leaders.

The statement expressed the disappointment and regret of the three countries after 49 years of membership in ECOWAS. It claimed that the organization has deviated from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism.

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The joint statement cited the lack of assistance from ECOWAS in their fight against terrorism and insecurity as a major concern. It also criticized the organization for imposing illegal and illegitimate sanctions when the countries took steps to address their own governance issues, further weakening their populations already affected by years of violence.

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger had previously been suspended from ECOWAS following the military coups and their failure to comply with the regional body’s directive to return to civilian rule.

Tensions between the ruling juntas and ECOWAS had been evident since a summit held in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, in December. During the summit, West African leaders called for a “short” transition period towards civilian rule in Niger before easing economic sanctions on the country. The junta in Niger had stated that it would take three years to restore civilian rule after President Mohamed Bazoum was deposed in July 2023.

In the case of Mali, civilian rule had been in place before the first coup in August 2020. Similarly, Burkina Faso’s elected government was ousted in 2022.

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The withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS marks a significant development in the region. The implications of this decision on regional cooperation, security, and governance remain to be seen, as ECOWAS has played a vital role in fostering economic integration and stability in West Africa.

READ THE FULL STATEMENT

SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh