Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama have called on Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to return to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after their withdrawal earlier this year.
The three nations, led by military juntas following coups between 2020 and 2023, left ECOWAS on January 29, forming a new alliance known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). During a visit to Abidjan, Mahama offered to mediate between ECOWAS and AES, emphasizing the need for regional unity and a transition to constitutional democracy.
Ouattara expressed hope that Mahama’s appeal would be heeded, stressing that West Africa’s future depends on reintegration. The split was triggered by ECOWAS’ response to Niger’s July 2023 coup, which included threats of military intervention and economic sanctions—measures that have since been lifted.
The juntas accused ECOWAS of failing to support them in combating jihadist violence and of being overly influenced by France. Despite mediation efforts from Togo and Senegal, the military regimes have maintained that their exit is final.
Mahama affirmed Ghana’s willingness to assist in counterterrorism efforts, noting that instability in neighboring countries poses a regional threat. He also announced plans to visit Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to foster dialogue.
Beyond political concerns, the discussions between Ouattara and Mahama also covered defense, security, and the cocoa industry, as both countries are major global producers.
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