In a significant development, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a response to the recent announcement of the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional community.
While ECOWAS acknowledges the decision of the three Member States to withdraw, it stated that it is yet to receive any direct formal notification regarding their intention to leave the Community.
Despite this, the authority asserts its unwavering dedication to seeking a negotiated resolution to the prevailing political challenges within those nations.
“The ECOWAS Commission, as directed by the Authority of Heads of State and Government, has been working assiduously with these countries for the restoration of constitutional order. Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali remain importamt members of the Community and the Authority remains committed to finding a negotiated solution to the political impasse”, the statement read.
The departure of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS was declared on Sunday, effective immediately. In their joint statement, the three African countries expressed dissatisfaction with what they perceive as ECOWAS drifting away from the principles laid down by its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism, citing these as reasons for their withdrawal.
In response, ECOWAS, through its communiqué, reiterated its firm commitment to collaborating closely with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to reinstate constitutional order, aligning its efforts with directives from the Authority of Heads of State and Government.
Furthermore, ECOWAS underscored the enduring importance of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali as indispensable members of the regional Community, emphasizing their integral role in its collective endeavors.
It’s noteworthy that these three countries are presently under the governance of military regimes following the overthrow of civilian leadership. This development adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing political dynamics within the region.
Read below the full statement by ECOWAS:
