Home News West African Nations of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso Withdraw from Ecowas Amidst Political Tensions
NewsPolitics

West African Nations of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso Withdraw from Ecowas Amidst Political Tensions

561

In a significant development, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have declared their departure from the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), despite already facing suspension from the bloc due to military coups and a call for a return to democratic governance.

The junta-led nations, founding members since 1975, cited a “sovereign decision” to withdraw, accusing Ecowas of straying from its founding principles and becoming influenced by foreign powers. The joint statement expressed dissatisfaction with Ecowas’ response to jihadist violence in their countries.

Despite tensions, Ecowas remains committed to resolving the political impasse through negotiation. The military leaders, now distancing from France and aligning with Russia, stressing the need for security restoration before elections. While Niger proposes a three-year transition, Mali delays elections, and Burkina Faso prioritizes the fight against insurgents.

Ecowas, awaiting formal withdrawal notices, adheres to a one-year notice requirement for member states leaving the bloc. The situation underscores the complex interplay of regional dynamics and security concerns in West Africa.

About The Author

Written by
Ikenna Churchill

Culture storyteller

Related Articles

NewsPolitics

Cotê D’Ivoire: Thousands Rally in Abidjan as Opposition Demands Electoral Reforms Ahead of October Election

Thousands of opposition supporters gathered in Abidjan on Saturday, May 31, to...

News

Togo Stops Issuing Mining Permits to Reform Outdated Mining Code

Togo has suspended the issuance of new mining permits for prospecting and...

News

ICYMI: Ghana Shuts Down Washington Embassy Over Visa Fraud Scandal

Ghana has temporarily closed its embassy in Washington, D.C., following the uncovering...

In a ministerial meeting of the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) held in Bamako on January 16, 2025, key decisions emerging from the session include establishing a Regional Investment Bank and launching transformative infrastructure projects across member states.
News

Confederation of Sahel States Moves to Establish Joint Judicial Body

The Confederation of Sahel States (CSS), comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso,...