Sahel Junta Leaders Form Alliance, Vow to Break Free from West African Bloc's "Foreign Control"

 

Military leaders from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have announced the creation of a new alliance, signalling a definitive split from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The leaders, who came to power through military coups in recent years, accuse ECOWAS of being under the control of "foreign powers" and failing to address the jihadist violence plaguing the Sahel region.

General Abdourahamane Tchiani, Niger's leader, stated their desire to build a "community of sovereign peoples" free from external influence. The alliance, known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), aims to foster security cooperation and economic ties, potentially including a new common currency independent of the French-backed CFA Franc.

This move comes amidst tensions with ECOWAS, which has pressured the junta-led countries for a swift return to civilian rule. The Sahel leaders have also expelled French troops involved in anti-jihadist operations, turning to Russia for military support.

Their rhetoric emphasizes regaining sovereignty and rejecting former colonial influence. Large crowds in Niamey reportedly cheered the summit, seen as a symbol of African self-determination.

Meanwhile, ECOWAS leaders are set to convene in Abuja, Nigeria, to discuss the situation. They are expected to activate a regional force to combat insecurity, a challenge the Sahelian juntas have yet to overcome.