ECOWAS bares teeth to Niger; imposes suspension over July 26 coup

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has declared the suspension of Niger from the regional organization. 

The decision, disclosed by the Commission, marks an unprecedented turn of events, raising questions about the circumstances leading to the suspension and its potential ramifications for diplomatic relations within the West African community.

Their suspension came into effect on December 10, 2023, coinciding with the 64th Ordinary Session of the Heads of States.

In a press release, the commission clarified that up until their latest session, the government of Mohamed BAZOUM, who was ousted from office by his guards five months ago, was still officially recognized.

“Until the 64th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government which took place on 10 December 2023, the Authority of the Heads of State and Government considered the situation in the Republic of Niger as an attempted coup, and H.E. Mohamed BAZOUM as the President and Head of State of the Republic of Niger.”

“That position meant that Niger was not suspended from ECOWAS decision-making bodies and that members of BAZOUM’s government could represent.”

However, his removal from office was officially admitted on December 10

“Therefore, from 10 December 2023, Niger stands suspended from all decision-making bodies of ECOWAS until the restoration of constitutional order in the country,” it announced.

President BAZOUM was overthrown on July 26, 2023, by members of his own presidential guard led by Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane.

Ultimatums for the President to be reinstated by ECOWAS and the West fell on deaf ears.