African Junta-Led States Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso Leave ECOWAS

Three West African countries under military rule, Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, have announced their decision to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a regional economic bloc.

This was confirmed in a joint statement read out on Niger national television on Sunday.

The three country’s decision to quit ECOWAS might not be uncconected to the stance of the regional group that they return to democratic rule.

The New development comes months after ECOWAS suspended the three countries following military coups and subsequent takeover of government.

Colonel Amadou Abdramane, Niger junta spokesman, said: “After 49 years, the valiant peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regretfully and with great disappointment observe that the (ECOWAS) organization has drifted from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism.

“The organization notably failed to assist these states in their existential fight against terrorism and insecurity.”

 

Burkina Faso

On 24 January 2022, Burkina Faso’s army, led by Paul-Henri Damiba, announced it had deposed President Roch Kabore after more than six years in power.

Nine months after, on 30 September 2022, Damiba was also removed in another military coup with army Captain Ibrahim Traore taking over.

Mali 

Mali has since August 2020 been under military rule after the junta led by Colonel Assimi Goita forced out an interim civilian government and promised to hold elections in February 2022. It, however, failed to deliver as promised, prompting sanctions from ECOWAS.

Niger

Niger’s military coup experience took place on 26 July 2023 when the army captured the President Muhammed Bazoum, and detained him.

The three West African countries have remained adamant about returning to democratic rule.