ECOWAS Stepped Forward to Restore Democracy in Niger

 

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ECOWAS Engages Niger's Coup Leaders Amid Sanctions and Regional Tensions

Learn about the impact of imposed sanctions, the bloc's considerations of military action, and the international response to the crisis. Explore the challenges ECOWAS faces in preserving democracy in West Africa and the concerns raised by neighboring countries over potential military intervention.

ECOWAS, the West African regional bloc, has taken proactive measures to address the political crisis in Niger following a recent coup. 

In its endeavor to negotiate with the Nigerian military officers who seized power and dethroned Mohamad Bazoum, ECOWAS sent a high-level delegation to the country in order to retreat to the normal democractic condition. 

The delegation, which is led by former Nigerian military leader Abdulsalami Abubakar, started talks with the military government in Niamey on Wednesday as well.

Imposition of Sanctions by ECOWAS

In response to the coup, ECOWAS has imposed significant sanctions on Niger and issued an ultimatum for the reinstatement of the elected President Mohamed Bazoum. 

The African bloc is closely monitoring the situation and has also declared its readiness to authorize and execute the use of force if the coup leaders fail to comply with the demands within the given timeframe. 

According to Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs, peace, and security, the military option is considered a last resort but one that requires preparation for any eventuality. 

ECOWAS' actions in Niger reflect its growing concern over a democratic backslide in the region. 

Sanctions on Similar Coups in Other African States

In recent years, member states, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea, have experienced Niger like coup attempts and political instability. 

To prevent further deterioration of democracy, the regional bloc has decided to take its toughest stance yet on Niger, implementing sanctions that include closing borders with the country and imposing financial restrictions. 

These sanctions are going to impact significantly on Niger, which is known as nation that is ranked as one of the world's poorest on the United Nations' Human Development Index. 

Neighboring Nigeria, upon ECOWAS' directive, has disconnected the high-voltage line that supplies 70 percent of Niger's electricity. 

The sanctions aim to exert pressure on the coup leaders and the country's military government. 

However, ECOWAS' actions have not been without consequences. Mali and Burkina Faso are already governed by military leadership and have expressed concerns over possible military intervention and interference in Niger. 

They consider such intervention as a potential declaration of war against them, heightening regional tensions.

Troops of Foreign Powers Stationed in Niger

On the one hand international community  has condemned the coup in Niger, while some foreign powers have troops stationed in the African country to support the fight against armed groups linked to banned outfits like al-Qaeda and ISIS. 

However, there have been no announcements of troop withdrawal as of yet.

 Army in Niger reopened Neighboring Borders

The leaders of the coup, in response to the mounting pressure, have taken steps to reopen Niger's borders with Algeria, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, and Libya. 

However, critical trade entryways remain closed due to the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS.

 Importance of Democracy in Niger?

As the situation unfolds, the international community emphasizes the importance of preserving democracy in Niger. 

The UK expresses support for ECOWAS' actions, recognizing the bloc's commitment to upholding democratic principles in the region. 

On the other hand, the intervention by Western military is discouraged, as it could be perceived as neo-colonialism. 

ECOWAS' engagement with Niger's coup leaders remains a delicate and challenging process. 

As the ECOWAS that is major regional bloc seeks to restore democracy and stability in the country. 

Lastly, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)