Title: “The extension of the transition in Mali: a pending reaction from ECOWAS”
Introduction :
ECOWAS, Economic Community of West African States, has still not reacted to the announcement of the extension of the transition in Mali, more than three weeks after its announcement. While the West African organization had played a crucial role in the negotiations of the electoral calendar for the transition, imposing a “reasonable” duration for this transition period, its current silence is striking. In this article, we will try to understand the reasons for this silence, based on the opinions of Malian and West African diplomats, technicians and researchers.
Empty seats and unsettling silence:
Since the announcement of the extension of the transition in Mali, ECOWAS has remained silent. While the organization had imposed sanctions on Mali during negotiations on the electoral calendar, this silence is seen as a disavowal or a mark of impotence on the part of ECOWAS. Many observers point out the fact that ECOWAS no longer has an interlocutor in Mali, the authorities in Bamako having broken off dialogue with the organization for several months. The ECOWAS mediator for Mali, Goodluck Jonathan, has not even set foot in the country for eight months.
Arguments kept cold?
Some believe that ECOWAS could have accepted a slight shift in the transition dates, but that there were no discussions on this subject. Sources suggest that the technical reasons invoked by Bamako could have been overcome, and worry that security or financial arguments will be kept in reserve to subsequently justify a much longer extension of the transition.
The need to restart the dialogue:
Despite this silence, many actors are calling for a relaunch of dialogue between ECOWAS and the transitional authorities in Mali. They believe that too strong declarations from ECOWAS would have been counterproductive, pleading instead for a more discreet and underground approach. It is also highlighted that there is an institutional weakness within ECOWAS, where it is the heads of state who make important decisions, which can give rise to internal divisions.
Togo’s troubled game:
Togo is singled out for its “troublesome game” and its lack of solidarity with the other ECOWAS countries. Some sources claim that Togo has become an informal emissary of military juntas in Mali, irritating many West African states and further weakening ECOWAS.
Priority on Niger:
Finally, it is also underlined that ECOWAS currently gives priority to Niger, which could explain its lesser involvement in the extension of the transition in Mali.. This may give the impression of “laisser-faire” in Mali, but in reality it is a desire to re-establish a form of authority in the region.
Conclusion :
The extension of the transition in Mali raises questions about the reaction of ECOWAS. Its current silence can be understood as a consequence of the difficulties of dialogue with the transitional authorities, as well as the various political and strategic issues within the organization. It is essential to relaunch dialogue and find a solution that will allow Mali to quickly regain its political stability while respecting the democratic aspirations of its population.