The leadership of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday suspended the membership of Mali in accordance with the Community’s protocol on ‘Democracy and Good Governance.’
“The situation in Mali is something that ECOWAS frowns upon-a coup has occurred again, we all thought we were in a transition towards the end of next year, when the Country will be returned to Constitutional rule,” Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey told journalists shortly after an emergency summit held in Accra, Ghana.
The meeting was called by the Chairman of ECOWAS, President Akufo-Addo of Ghana to deliberate on the political crisis in Mali following the coup by the Malian military, led by Colonel Assimi Goïta.
According to Botchwey, the decision follows ECOWAS’s least tolerance for chaos, lawlessness and disregard for Laws that bind a Country.
She added that until Colonel Assimi Goïta seizing power this week, the regional body was still hopeful Mali will comply with the February, 2022 set-date to return the country to democratic rule.
“Unfortunately, this has happened and it is incumbent on the Heads of State to look at the whole situation so that it doesn’t happen again and also to safeguard the security situation in the whole of West Africa”
She however said, regardless of the suspension, the Malian Military and its leaders will “work with ECOWAS to ensure that the transition is on track towards the end goal, which is to return the people of Mali to democratic rule.”
Mrs Botchwey said that the suspension will come to an end immediately the Country returns to civilian government.
Addressing the meeting, President Akufo-Addo said recent happenings in Mali have raised anxiety levels in the West African Sub-Region, but assured that ECOWAS members are committed to restoring democracy and stability in the country.
“In this respect we must critically examine the dynamics of the situation and make informed decisions,” he added.
