Ecowas, the regional organization, is reportedly preparing to lift economic sanctions on Niger “soon” following the coup on July 26, 2023, led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani against President Mohamed Bazoum.
Following a standoff in negotiations between the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and Ecowas mediators, tensions escalated at the end of January 2024 when the military-ruled countries announced their departure from ECOWAS.
To resolve the deadlock, Ecowas heads of state have taken the first step to lift sanctions imposed on Niger, the only country still under such measures. The announcement is expected before the start of Ramadan on March 10.
According to leaked information, there are concerns from some cautious states that this decision may be interpreted as succumbing to pressure.
A West African minister stated, “The sanctions were not meant to be permanent. They were intended to swiftly halt the wave of coups and restore President Mohamed Bazoum to power in Niger. As such, it is our responsibility as political leaders to reassess this decision.”
After the announcement of the withdrawal of countries from Ecowas, the organization’s presidents instructed their foreign ministers to discuss the matter during an extraordinary session held on February 8 in Abuja.
It’s worth noting that Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara held discussions on February 16, 2024, in Abidjan with Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé. They reviewed the socio-political and security situation within Ecowas and the West African Economic and Monetary Union, while also addressing the decision of certain countries to leave Ecowas and the humanitarian situation in these countries. They concluded that re-evaluating strategies, dialogues, and consultations was crucial for peace, security, and stability in the region.
