Why Ecowas react as Alliance of Sahel States launch new passport

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced that the departure of three countries as member states will be effective starting Wednesday, January 29, 2025...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING.>>

One year ago, Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali, and the Republic of Niger declared their exit from the organization.

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In their announcement, ECOWAS stated that they would keep the door open in the spirit of regional solidarity.

However, the Sahel states’ initiative to establish their common passport suggests that a return is uncertain.

They called on authorities within and outside of ECOWAS member nations to recognize the national passports and identity cards carrying the ECOWAS logo for citizens of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali, and the Republic of Niger until further notice.

Additionally, they urged continued treatment of goods and services from these three countries following the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.

They also emphasized the right to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment for citizens of the affected countries in line with ECOWAS protocols until further notice.

Finally, they requested that authorities provide full support and cooperation to ECOWAS officials from the three countries while they carry out their duties until further notice.

ECOWAS further mentioned that these arrangements will remain in place until leaders of the joint body fully determine future engagements with the three countries.

The Commission stated that frameworks are in place to discuss the current situations with each country individually.

They noted that these arrangements are crucial to prevent confusion and disruptions in the lives and businesses of people during the transition period.

The three countries have moved forward to establish a Sahel State. The military-led governments of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, which are three neighboring Sahel countries, officially left the West Africa regional bloc on Wednesday.

They plan to issue a new travel passport that aligns with their exit from ECOWAS.

The junta leaders, now operating under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), claimed that this move is part of efforts to enhance cooperation among member states.

According to BBC NEWS Reports, the new passport is expected to become operational on Wednesday, January 29, and will replace the ECOWAS passport currently used by citizens of the three nations.

The Sahel authorities are encouraging citizens to register for the new passport, though they added that the ECOWAS passports will remain valid until their expiration date.

On Tuesday, January 28, hundreds of pro-junta demonstrators in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger took to the streets in rallies to support the decision to leave the regional bloc.

In Niger, military leaders led thousands of people who gathered in a square in the capital, Niamey.

They marched toward the national assembly chanting hostile slogans against French President Emmanuel Macron and other regional leaders.

No rallies were held in Mali, but similar developments are expected across the regions.

The exit of these countries is significant for ECOWAS, as the bloc will need to profoundly reassess its future, which appears uncertain.

ECOWAS stated that the Sahel states have a six-month grace period until July to reconsider their positions, should they choose to seek re-admission.