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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has formally recognized the decision by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso to withdraw from the bloc.
This development, announced at the conclusion of the 66th Ordinary Session in Abuja on January 29, 2024, underscores growing tensions between the regional organization and the military-led governments of the three countries.
Context of the Withdrawal
Relations between ECOWAS and the three nations have deteriorated following military coups in Mali (2020), Burkina Faso (2022), and Niger (2023).
The bloc suspended their memberships, citing the need for a return to democratic governance, which fueled discontent.
The governments of these countries have accused ECOWAS of straying from its original purpose and becoming a tool for external powers.
They also criticized the bloc’s perceived ineffectiveness in addressing regional terrorism.
In a joint statement, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso described their decision to exit as “irreversible,” asserting that ECOWAS no longer represented their interests or aligned with its founding principles.
Timeline and Next Steps
According to ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray, the withdrawal process is governed by Article 91 of the revised ECOWAS treaty.
The three nations will cease to be members of the bloc officially on January 29, 2025.
A transitional period extending to July 29, 2025, has been established, during which ECOWAS will remain open to dialogue and potential re-engagement.
Touray acknowledged the diplomatic efforts of Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé in mediating the situation.
Their mandates have been extended to facilitate discussions during the transition.
ECOWAS plans to draft a contingency strategy to outline the political and economic implications of the withdrawal.
An extraordinary session of the Council of Ministers is scheduled for mid-2025 to finalize separation procedures.
Implications and Regional Stability
The departure of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso marks a significant turning point in West African politics, raising concerns about the region’s stability.
ECOWAS Chairman and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu emphasized the need for unity among remaining member states to address collective challenges effectively.
In his closing remarks, Tinubu called for renewed commitment to ECOWAS’s foundational principles, stressing the importance of cooperation to promote peace, security, and democracy.
He expressed optimism about the bloc’s ability to navigate current challenges and ensure tangible benefits for its citizens.
Acknowledging the contributions of outgoing leaders such as Ghana’s former President Nana Akufo-Addo, Tinubu urged continued collaboration and expressed gratitude for their guidance.
He concluded the summit by reaffirming ECOWAS’s dedication to fostering regional prosperity and stability.