In a landmark decision, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has formally acknowledged the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from its ranks.
This significant development was announced on January 29, 2024, during the 66th Ordinary Session of ECOWAS in Abuja.
The statement, read by Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, on behalf of Chairman Bola Tinubu, marked a pivotal moment in regional diplomacy. The three nations, governed by military-led regimes, cited dissatisfaction with ECOWAS’s approach to their political crises and what they described as inadequate support in their fight against terrorism.
Escalating Tensions and Irreversible Decisions
Relations between ECOWAS and the three countries have deteriorated following military takeovers in Mali (2020), Burkina Faso (2022), and Niger (2023). ECOWAS had suspended their memberships, demanding a return to democratic governance. In response, the three nations issued a joint statement declaring their withdrawal as “irreversible,” accusing ECOWAS of straying from its founding principles and serving foreign interests.
Touray confirmed that under Article 91 of the revised ECOWAS treaty, the withdrawal will take effect on January 29, 2025. A transitional period extending until July 29, 2025, has been set, during which ECOWAS will maintain open channels for potential re-engagement.
Diplomatic Efforts and Future Plans
The communiqué commended Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé for their diplomatic efforts to mediate the situation. Their mandate has been extended to facilitate dialogue during the transitional period.
“The authority takes note of the notification by Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali, and the Republic of Niger of their decision to withdraw from ECOWAS,” stated Touray. He added that formal withdrawal procedures would commence after the January 2025 deadline, with contingency plans to outline political and economic relations moving forward.
Regional Stability in Question
This unprecedented move has raised concerns about the future stability of the West African region. ECOWAS leaders have emphasized the need for unity among remaining member states.
President Bola Tinubu, in his closing remarks, called for steadfast commitment to the principles of peace, justice, and democracy. Highlighting the summit’s achievements, Tinubu urged member states to implement decisions that deliver tangible benefits for their citizens, reinforcing the bloc’s vision of a united and prosperous West Africa.
Reflecting on outgoing leaders’ contributions, Tinubu expressed gratitude for their wisdom, particularly thanking Ghana’s Nana Akufo-Addo and Moussa Faki of the African Union Commission.
As ECOWAS braces for this significant shift, its leaders remain optimistic about navigating the challenges ahead while striving to uphold regional peace and cooperation.
