The announcement of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso’s exit from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has been made. The bloc had previously suspended these countries, which were ruled by military juntas, and had pushed for their return to democratic administration. The three states refer to the decision to leave ECOWAS as a “sovereign decision.” Interestingly, they were part of the bloc’s original membership when it was founded in 1975. The ECOWAS, which has repeatedly urged for the restoration of civilian authority in these countries, is less amicable with the junta-led countries as a result of this decision.
In a collective statement broadcasted on state media in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, the governments expressed that their decision to exit ECOWAS stems from the belief that the bloc has deviated from the principles set by its founding leaders and the essence of Pan-Africanism. The joint statement underscores a perception that ECOWAS, influenced by foreign powers, has strayed from its initial principles, posing a threat to member states and populations. The three countries contend that ECOWAS has fallen short in assisting them in addressing the challenges posed by jihadist violence within their borders.
The continuation of the joint statement emphasizes that ECOWAS, allegedly influenced by external forces, has veered away from its foundational principles, becoming a perceived threat to member states and their populations. The document also highlights the bloc’s perceived failure to assist the three countries in combating jihadist violence within their borders. Tensions between the bloc and the junta-led nations escalated following military coups in Niger in July, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Mali in 2020. ECOWAS has consistently urged the three countries to restore civilian rule.
In reaction to Sunday’s declaration, ECOWAS emphasized the significance of the three nations as “important members of the Community” and reaffirmed its dedication to seeking a negotiated resolution to the ongoing political deadlock. The bloc clarified that it had not formally received notification from the countries regarding their withdrawal. As per the ECOWAS treaty, member states intending to withdraw are required to provide written notice one year in advance and are expected to adhere to the treaty’s provisions during this transitional period.
Despite being suspended from the bloc and facing sanctions, negotiations, and even threats of military intervention, the military leaders have shown increased resistance, asserting that the bloc is under the influence of external powers. Their stance reflects a steadfast refusal to comply with the demands and interventions of Ecowas, suggesting a deepening rift between the military-led nations and the regional bloc. This resistance underscores the complex and challenging dynamics in the ongoing efforts to resolve the political impasse and restore democratic governance in the affected West African countries.
The three nations have taken steps to distance themselves from their former colonial power, France, by strengthening ties with Russia. Notably, in September, they solidified their alliance through the creation of a mutual defense pact known as The Alliance of Sahel States. This strategic shift in alliances suggests a reevaluation of geopolitical partnerships and adds another layer of complexity to the regional dynamics, potentially influencing the ongoing political developments in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
The military leaders in these three countries argue that their priority is to restore security before organizing elections, given the challenges they face in containing jihadist insurgencies associated with groups like al Qaeda and Islamic State. Niger’s military leaders have proposed a transition period of up to three years before returning to civilian rule. In Mali, the military government initially aimed to hold elections in February, but this timeline has been postponed to an unspecified date. Burkina Faso has scheduled elections for the upcoming summer, emphasizing that the ongoing fight against insurgents remains their primary focus.
The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) had planned a delegation visit to Niamey for discussions with the military junta in Niger on imposing sanctions. However, technical issues with the aircraft intended for the delegation led to the postponement of the meeting. This delay adds another layer of complexity to the diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the political impasse between Ecowas and the junta-led nations.
