A military incursion by members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) into Niger could potentially result in the dissolution of the community, Prime Minister of Mali's transitional government Choguel Kokalla Maiga has voiced this viewpoint.
"Presently, there is an attempt, masked by the pretext of democracy and opposition, to fragment our unity as African nations," stated the prime minister. The Abamako news portal cited him as expressing that if a military intervention occurs in Niger, it could lead to the dissolution of ECOWAS.
According to the politician, active preparations are in progress for the fragmentation of Africa, with the initial step being the disintegration of ECOWAS. From the outset, certain entities have harbored intentions to dismantle the community, driven by a reluctance "to witness the consolidation of African nations", the prime minister remarked. He underscored that ECOWAS is primarily an economic union, not a political one, and urged its leadership to exercise "prudence and restraint" in their actions.
In late July, a faction of military officers from Niger's presidential guard staged a mutiny and declared the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum from power. Subsequently, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, led by Guard Commander Abdourahamane Tchiani, assumed control of the country's governance. Responding to the situation, ECOWAS leaders swiftly enforced stringent sanctions against the rebels and issued a demand for the release of President Bazoum, while also indicating the potential use of force.
On August 18, following a meeting of the Chiefs of General Staff of the Armed Forces of ECOWAS member states convened in Ghana's capital, ECOWAS Commissioner for Peace and Security Abdel Fatau Musah disclosed that the precise commencement date for a military intervention has been determined. Nevertheless, an official announcement of this date is yet to be made.
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Based on materials from TASS