The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has stated that it has not yet received any formal notification directly from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regarding their intention to withdraw from the community.
Earlier, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger announced their decision to leave ECOWAS in a national broadcast on their respective national television channels.
Meanwhile, ECOWAS signals a willingness to engage in dialogue to address any concerns or grievances. Emphasizing the importance of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger as key partners within the bloc, the ECOWAS statement reads, “The attention of the Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS Commission) has been drawn to a statement broadcast on the National Televisions of Mali and Niger announcing the decision of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from ECOWAS. The ECOWAS Commission is yet to receive any direct formal notification from the three Member States about their intention to withdraw from the Community. The ECOWAS Commission, as directed by the Authority of Heads of State and Government, has been working assiduously with these countries for the restoration of constitutional order.”
“Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali remain important members of the Community, and the Authority remains committed to finding a negotiated solution to the political impasse. The ECOWAS Commission remains seized with the development and shall make further pronouncements as the situation evolves. Abuja, 28 January 2024.”
