IN a joint statement broadcasted on Niger national television, the junta-led states of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso declared on Sunday their immediate departure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The move dealt a severe blow to the regional economic bloc, which had been urging the countries to return to democratic rule following military takeovers that led to their suspension.
Despite facing sanctions and international pressure, the military leaders of the three nations have been unyielding in their stance, failing to provide a clear timetable for the restoration of constitutional rule. Instead, they have intensified their criticism of ECOWAS, accusing it of being influenced by external powers. The trio has also severed military and cooperation ties with former colonial master France, seeking security support from Russia.
Colonel Amadou Abdramane, spokesperson for the Niger junta, expressed disappointment in the joint statement, stating, ‘After 49 years, the valiant peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regretfully observe that the (ECOWAS) organisation has drifted from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism.’ Abdramane argued that ECOWAS had failed to assist the states in their fight against terrorism and insecurity.
The impact of the junta-led states’ withdrawal on the 15-member regional bloc, where goods and citizens move freely, remains uncertain. According to ECOWAS’s treaty, member states wishing to withdraw must provide a written one-year notice, and it is unclear whether the three states have done so. During this year-long period, the treaty stipulates that they must continue to abide by its provisions.
Furthermore, the three countries are also part of the West African Monetary Union (UEMOA), an eight-nation union using the West Africa CFA franc currency pegged to the Euro. Following decisions by ECOWAS leaders after the coups in Mali and Niger, UEMOA had cut off their access to the regional financial market and the regional central bank. While Mali’s access has been restored, Niger remains suspended, adding further complexity to the evolving regional dynamics.