The Unwavering Mandate of ECOWAS in the Age of Globalization: Urgent Need for Peaceful Restoration of Civil Rule in AES Countries.
By Raymond Enoch
As the world continues to evolve in the face of globalization, the role of intergovernmental organizations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has become more crucial than ever.
ECOWAS, a regional body founded on the principles of fostering economic integration, stability, and security, has proven to be a pivotal player in addressing regional challenges. Its success is anchored in its partnership with key national and regional organizations, creating a collective force that has positively impacted the West African sub-region.
However, the increasing instances of military coups in some ECOWAS member states, particularly within the AES (Purportedly so to say -Anti-ECOWAS States), have raised serious concerns regarding those countries’s mandate and ability to uphold peace, stability, and democratic governance. The growing trend of military-led takeovers directly contradicts the principles enshrined in the ECOWAS founding treaty, an affront to the collective security of the sub-region.
Military intervention is not only an anomaly but a direct violation of ECOWAS’s constitutive rules, which emphasize the importance of democratic governance and civilian rule. The presence of military regimes in the AES countries undermines regional stability and sets a dangerous precedent that could spread across the sub-region.
The continued military rule in these countries cannot be the “norm.” Instead, the priority should be to reestablish constitutional order and return to a democratic path, a vital step that will enhance cooperation, security, and development within the ECOWAS framework.
The military’s dissolution of civilian governments and the suspension of constitutional processes in these AES countries are not only unjustifiable but are also suppressive of the will of the people. Such actions serve only the interests of a small, select group while disregarding the broader aspirations of the citizens. The impact of military regimes on the economic, social, and political stability of the affected nations is devastating, and this trend cannot be allowed to continue indefinitely.
It is essential that ECOWAS, alongside the global community, stand firm in condemning these military interventions and instead advocate for the restoration of civilian rule and the protection of democratic institutions. Civil rule and civic space are cornerstones of the modern world, and it is imperative that the changing circumstances of global governance – which prioritize democratic values and human rights – be upheld across the ECOWAS sub-region.
Therefore, ECOWAS must not waver in its commitment to peace, democracy, and stability. The path forward lies in collaboration, not with military regimes, but with the people of West Africa who desire constitutional order and democratic governance. It is time to ensure that the military coup era does not define the future of the AES countries. ECOWAS must continue its efforts to restore civilian governments, uphold the rule of law, and protect the fundamental rights of all its citizens. The strength of ECOWAS as a regional power is directly linked to its ability to champion peace, stability, and democracy within the sub-region. The time to act is now.
