Dear Advocate of Reasoning,
Welcome to another edition of our weekly newsletter. This week, we take a look at the pressing issue of the Alliance of Sahel States and its potential impact on African democracy. The secession of junta-led countries from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has raised concerns, posing a significant challenge to the democratic fabric of the continent.
On January 28, the trio of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The countries stated that withdrawal from the West African bloc was a sovereign decision made after enduring heavy sanctions and inhumane treatment for running military governments.
The secession of the trio from the West African bloc might plunge other countries into coup plotting, endangering democracy and the rule of law, writes Favour Adeboye, one of our editorial interns.
This is due to the fact that even before the recent withdrawal from ECOWAS, the three countries had formed a coalition named the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS). Experts and observers have said such a coalition is dangerous because it might be a stride towards forming a military confederacy against democratic governments in the region.
Hence, ECOWAS has a burden on its head to maintain peace and stable democracy among its member-states. There is a need to uphold democratic principles and the rule of law. ECOWAS should enhance diplomatic ties and collaboration among member states to create a united front against coup attempts.
The bloc can work closely with member states to identify and address socio-political challenges, promoting inclusive governance, economic stability, and social justice. Further delve more into the topic here.Thank you and that’s all from us now. We hope you had reason with us on this and for more pro-libertarian ideas, catch up with us on X.
