Current News in West Africa
2023-08-19
The image of the ECOWAS Chiefs of Defense meeting in Accra in August 2023 draws attention to ongoing political developments in the region. The ECOWAS force declared itself ready to intervene in Niger after the July 26 coup, with an intervention date already set. However, a diplomatic mission could also visit Niamey to continue mediation efforts and try to restore constitutional order peacefully.
The situation in Niger remains tense since the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum. ECOWAS has ordered the deployment of its “standby force” to restore constitutional order, while also favoring the path of dialogue with the military regime. Calls for a peaceful settlement of the crisis are increasing, particularly from the United States and the European Union.
However, the military in power in Niger remain inflexible and consider any armed intervention as an “illegal and senseless aggression”. They also hold ousted president Mohamed Bazoum and intend to prosecute him for “high treason”. President Bazoum’s conditions of detention are deteriorating, raising concerns about his health and well-being.
In this context, the meeting of ECOWAS Armed Forces Chiefs of Staff is of great importance. They agreed on the strategic objectives of the intervention, the necessary equipment and the commitment of the Member States. This meeting aims to coordinate the efforts of ECOWAS to restore constitutional order and bring stability to the region.
In parallel with the preparations for the intervention, a possible diplomatic mission could go to Niamey in the coming days. This mission will seek to continue negotiations and talks with the military regime to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis. However, ECOWAS remains firm and insists that the military cannot defy the will of the people and assume the right to rule illegitimately.
The international community, notably the European Union and the United Nations, strongly support ECOWAS efforts to restore constitutional order in Niger. They condemn the coup and refuse to recognize the authorities resulting from the putsch. The priority is to find a solution that respects democratic principles and protects human rights.
In conclusion, the meeting of the chiefs of staff of the ECOWAS armies and the possible diplomatic mission in Niger are encouraging signs. They testify to the will of the international community and the region to peacefully resolve the ongoing political crisis. It remains to be seen whether these efforts will result in a return to constitutional order and stability in the region