The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned the decision of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso to withdraw from the bloc, stating that the countries did not abide by the proper rules for exit. The military-led countries had earlier issued a joint statement on national television, accusing ECOWAS of betraying its founding principles and imposing illegitimate sanctions.
ECOWAS, however, countered these allegations, stating that no formal notification of withdrawal was received. According to Article 91 of the Revised Treaty of ECOWAS, member states are required to write a notice one year prior to departure and to continue complying with the treaty’s provisions.
Commenting on the situation, President Omar AlieuTouray criticized the hasty decision, emphasizing the potential adverse implications for the citizens of these states. An extraordinary session of the Mediation and Security Council was subsequently convened to deliberate on measures to address these decisions and the ongoing political situation in Senegal.
In the past, successful military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have prompted ECOWAS to call for a return to constitutional orders and to impose economic sanctions. ECOWAS also previously rejected a proposal by Niger’s military junta to hold elections within three years. The leaders of these countries have deemed ECOWAS’s stance on the current political conflicts as irrational and unacceptable.
This article was initially published by JURIST – News.