CSS Member States Leave La Francophonie, Call It a “Remote-Controlled Political Instrument”

The three-member states of the Confederation of Sahel States (CSS)—Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—have announced their withdrawal from the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF). In a joint press release issued by their foreign ministers, the governments of the three nations accused the OIF of political bias and external influence, calling it a “remote-controlled political instrument.”

According to the statement, the decision was made in response to what the CSS governments see as a “condescending” and “instrumentalized” approach by La Francophonie. They claim the organization selectively imposed sanctions against them for geopolitical reasons while failing to support their political transitions.

Citing Article 10 of the OIF charter, the leaders of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger affirmed that their withdrawal was in line with their commitment to national sovereignty and the aspirations of their people.  The move marks a significant rupture with an institution that the three nations helped establish and develop over the past 55 years.

Recall that Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have officially withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), effective from today January 29, 2024.

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