ECOWAS leaders urged to prioritise citizens’ welfare

The West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS Network) has called on the leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to focus on the interests of citizens and regional security in their proposed post-exit dialogue with Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.

In a statement on Sunday in Abuja, WADEMOS’ Regional Advocacy Officer and ECOWAS Liaison Lead, Mr Austin Aigbe, emphasised the importance of prioritising dialogue with the three countries, following their recent decision to sever ties with ECOWAS by signing the Liptako-Gourma Charter on January 29, 2024.

WADEMOS urged both the three nations’ leaders and ECOWAS to engage in sustained dialogue that considers the broader interests of the citizens and the region’s security.

The statement stressed the need for inclusive solutions that prioritise the well-being of millions of people in West Africa.

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The network also called for ECOWAS to review its treaty and operational frameworks to align with the current and emerging political and security challenges in the region.

This review, WADEMOS argued, should include strengthening the role of ECOWAS’ citizen-focused organ, ECOSOC, to ensure that the organisation remains connected to the people it serves.

“We commend ongoing efforts to establish ECOSOC and encourage ECOWAS to expedite its formation as the only organ yet to be constituted. The future and sustainability of ECOWAS will depend largely on its connection with the citizens,” the statement read.

In addition, the network recommended a revision of ECOWAS’ sanction regime, particularly in relation to the Unconstitutional Change of Governments (UCG), as a tool to promote democratic governance, strengthen institutions, and address youth-related challenges in the region.

WADEMOS urged the AES states to reconsider their exit decision, citing the potential benefits of remaining within the ECOWAS framework.

While acknowledging the importance of national sovereignty and the fight against neo-colonialism, the network warned that leaving the regional alliance could undermine the economic and security benefits that the people of the region enjoy.

It also encouraged AES states to utilise the six-month window offered by ECOWAS to transition, suggesting that dialogue and negotiation remain the best route forward for the people.