CSS States May Boycott UEMOA Over Alleged Obstruction of Power Rotation by President Ouattara

Tensions are rising within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) ahead of its ministerial meeting scheduled for July 11, as the Confederation of Sahel States (CSS), comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, considers boycotting the session in protest of what it calls a politically motivated exclusion.

According to AESInfo, the controversy stems from a decision by Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara to block Burkina Faso from assuming the rotating presidency of UEMOA’s Council of Ministers.

The presidency, which traditionally rotates among member states, was set to pass to Burkina Faso, a founding member of the union, under established protocol.

However, Ouattara’s government has reportedly rejected the Burkinabè candidacy, citing political concerns. CSS leaders say this move is an open affront to regional unity and a clear attempt to marginalise the Sahelian bloc, which has adopted a stance of political and economic sovereignty in recent years.

In response, officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are considering a joint boycott of the July 11 meeting.

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