Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye is urging dialogue with the military juntas ruling Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, following their recent departure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Tensions are high after the Sahel nations formed their own confederation, accusing ECOWAS of being manipulated by France and failing to adequately support counter-terrorism efforts. This split threatens regional stability and has prompted warnings of potential “disintegration” from ECOWAS leaders.
President Faye, appointed as a mediator by ECOWAS, called for peaceful reconciliation in a video message on Monday. “We cannot stand idly by,” he stressed. “Our responsibility is to work on bringing everyone closer and ensure there is room for dialogue.”
Despite their withdrawal, Faye pointed out that Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger technically remain ECOWAS members for another year under the organization’s rules. He expressed hope that “enough conversations” can occur during this period “to reconcile views and strengthen the organization” for tackling shared challenges.
Meanwhile, ECOWAS is drafting an emergency plan to address potential contingencies arising from the strained relations with the breakaway states.
