Sahel: Bekki Benameur, the Algerian pan-Africanist, applauds the decision to withdraw from the AES and is indignant with ECOWAS
In an unprecedented move, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), have announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Bekki Benameur, a prominent Pan-Africanist and Algerian intellectual, warmly welcomed this historic decision. He emphasized the need for a profound reform within ECOWAS to ensure the freedom and democracy of the people in the region.
Pan-Africanist Bekki Benameur praised the courage of the three countries in the Alliance of Sahel States, highlighting that their decision to withdraw from ECOWAS was an act of sovereignty and responsibility towards their citizens.
According to him, ECOWAS has failed in its mission to support these nations facing the growing threat of terrorism, leaving their people defenseless.
«ECOWAS cannot proclaim itself a guardian of freedom and democracy in West Africa while remaining indifferent to the suffering of the Sahel’s peoples», said Bekki Benameur.
«It is unacceptable that this organization did not respond adequately to the terrorist invasion in these countries, where it should have acted as a bulwark against such threats».
Mr. Benameur emphasized the striking contrast between the European Union’s response to crises in its own member countries and ECOWAS’s attitude toward Sahel nations.
«When a European country faces similar problems, the European Union mobilizes to provide support and assistance. It is incomprehensible that ECOWAS did not act in the same way towards its own Sahel members», he added.
The Pan-Africanist also criticized ECOWAS leaders who seemed to oppose the leaders of the Alliance of Sahel States rather than supporting their efforts in the fight against terrorism and the preservation of their nations’ sovereignty.
«Instead of uniting in African solidarity to face these common challenges, some ECOWAS leaders chose to oppose the Sahel countries, which is regrettable and counterproductive», he lamented.
In conclusion, Mr. Bekki Benameur called for a profound reform within ECOWAS, urging the organization to reconsider its priorities and fully engage in the fight against terrorism and the promotion of democracy in West Africa.
He expressed his total support for the countries of the Alliance of Sahel States in their quest for justice, security, and prosperity for their people.
Cedric KABORE
