In a significant development, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a decisive directive to its military standby force, urging them to take action to reinstate constitutional order in Niger Republic.
The announcement was made by ECOWAS President Omar Alieu Touray during an extraordinary meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, August 10, 2023. The regional bloc has called upon the African Union, partner nations, and institutions to unite behind its resolution aimed at freeing and reinstating the democratically elected former President of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum.
Bazoum was removed from power on July 26, 2023, by a military junta led by Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani. Despite ECOWAS' efforts to engage in dialogue and negotiate a resolution, the coup leaders have resisted all attempts, even while detaining President Bazoum and his family.
In an excerpt from the resolution, it states, "Direct the committee of the Chief of Defence Staff to activate the ECOWAS standby force with all its elements immediately. Order the deployment of the ECOWAS stand-by force to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger. Underscore its continued commitment to the restoration of constitutional order through peaceful means."
ECOWAS had initially given the Niger military leaders a seven-day ultimatum to restore constitutional order in the country. However, the military went ahead and appointed a Prime Minister, indicating their intentions to establish a new government.
The resolution, following extensive discussions and diplomatic efforts, also strongly condemns the conditions of President Bazoum's detention. It places full responsibility on the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) for the safety of the detained president, his family, and members of the government.
ECOWAS affirms its commitment to various measures aimed at restoring constitutional order in Niger. These measures include border closures, strict travel bans, and asset freezes on individuals or groups obstructing peaceful efforts to restore order.
The regional bloc also calls upon member states and international bodies like the African Union and the United Nations to support their efforts in ensuring a swift and peaceful restoration of constitutional order in Niger.
As ECOWAS takes this resolute step, the international community watches closely, with hopes that these actions will contribute to stability and the rule of law in Niger.