The Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) has decided to send its own mediation team to Niger's new military junta amid the conflict between the junta and neighboring states. This move comes after the Ecowas heads of state ordered the activation of a military readiness force to restore constitutional order in Niger. The junta has so far refused to meet with official Ecowas delegations.
Abuja (dpa) - The conflict between Niger's new military junta and neighboring states has prompted the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) to send its own mediation team to the coup leaders. At an extraordinary virtual session on Saturday, the Ecowas parliamentarians made this decision, as reported by the Nigerian state-owned international broadcaster, Voice of Nigeria, on Sunday.
The Ecowas heads of state issued orders during a special summit on Thursday to activate a military readiness force to restore constitutional order after the coup in Niger. At the same time, diplomatic efforts to achieve a peaceful solution were given priority. The new rulers of Niger have so far refused to receive official Ecowas delegations. A group of Islamic clerics travelled to Niger on Saturday.
The Niger, a country with a population of approximately 26 million people and one of the poorest populations in the world, was one of the last democratic partners of the United States and European states in the Sahel region on the southern edge of the Sahara until the coup. France and the US have important military bases in the country, which is also located on a central migration route to Europe. On July 26, the military ousted the president and suspended the constitution. Since then, the coup leaders have appointed their own transitional government.
The Ecowas parliamentary delegation reportedly includes representatives from most of the eleven active Ecowas member states. Four states, including Niger, are suspended due to military coups. According to the report, most parliamentarians voiced their opposition to a potential military intervention in Niger during the parliamentary discussion. Others called for the bloc to defend itself against military coups.
This development highlights the ongoing political instability and regional tensions in Niger. The Ecowas mediation team is a crucial step towards resolving the conflict and restoring peace and democratic governance in the country. The team will work to engage the military junta in constructive dialogue and encourage them to respect constitutional order and the aspirations of the Nigerien people.
The international community, including the African Union, has been closely monitoring the situation in Niger. The involvement of Ecowas demonstrates the commitment of regional organizations to peace and stability in West Africa. It is hoped that diplomatic efforts will lead to a peaceful resolution and a return to democratic governance in Niger.
The issues at stake in Niger extend beyond its borders. The country's strategic location, its role in counter-terrorism efforts, and its position on key migration routes make it a matter of regional and international concern. The international community, especially Western powers, should work closely with Ecowas to support the mediation efforts and ensure a peaceful and inclusive transition in Niger.
The Ecowas mediation team's mission is not without challenges. The reluctance of the military junta to engage with Ecowas delegations may hinder progress. However, diplomacy and dialogue remain the best avenues for resolving conflicts and restoring democratic norms. Ecowas, backed by the international community, must continue to exert pressure on the military junta and explore all possible avenues for a peaceful resolution.
It is evident that the situation in Niger requires swift action and diplomatic finesse. The Ecowas mediation team represents a ray of hope for Niger and the region as a whole. The team's efforts will undoubtedly be closely watched and will carry significant weight in determining the future trajectory of Niger's political landscape.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-13 News
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