KEY POINTS
- Akufo-Addo urges ECOWAS to work for Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso’s return.
- He emphasizes the need for regional unity in dealing with security challenges.
- Ghanaian president insists on the release of Niger’s detained president, Mohamed Bazoum.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to remain committed to engaging with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso following their recent exits from the regional bloc. He emphasized that bringing these countries back into ECOWAS is essential for their own benefit and the stability of the entire region.
The impact of withdrawals on the region
In an interview, President Akufo-Addo expressed regret over the exit of the three nations, which have been dealing with increasing instability in recent times. He highlighted that while the ECOWAS treaty permits member states to withdraw, the long-term impact of such a decision might prove detrimental to all parties involved.
“I don’t believe it is in their interest, or in the interest of ECOWAS, for this to happen,” Akufo-Addo said. “Even if they wash their hands of us, we will not wash our hands of them.”
He called on regional leaders to prioritize diplomatic efforts to persuade these nations to reconsider their decision and return to the ECOWAS community, which he argued would enhance their ability to address ongoing security and political challenges.
Concern over regional insecurity
The Ghanaian president also raised concerns about the worsening insecurity across the three nations since they left ECOWAS, especially in light of the withdrawal of French troops. According to Graphic Online, President Akufo-Addo noted that the growing instability has made the situation more difficult for the citizens of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Specifically addressing the political situation in Niger, President Akufo-Addo condemned the continued detention of the country’s democratically elected leader, Mohamed Bazoum, by the military junta. He insisted that securing Bazoum’s release is a priority for the region, and urged ECOWAS member states to continue pressing for his freedom.
“We have to continue to insist on his freedom,” Akufo-Addo stated. “His freedom is very much on the table.”
President Akufo-Addo underscored the importance of political and regional unity, reiterating that the involvement of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger within ECOWAS is crucial for addressing security concerns and fostering sustainable development in West Africa.
