WADEMOS urges Mahama to mediate ECOWAS exit crisis

By Abubakar Yunusa

The West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS) has called on Ghana’s President John Mahama to step in and mediate the impending exit of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

In a statement released Thursday, WADEMOS congratulated Mahama on his recent electoral victory and described Ghana as a beacon of hope for democratic governance in West Africa.

The organization lauded Ghana’s commitment to democracy and stability, especially during a period marked by political turbulence and constitutional violations across the subregion.

“The Republic of Ghana has again distinguished itself as a haven for electoral democracy and the stability deeply longed for in many areas across the ECOWAS subregion,” the statement read.

The appeal comes after ECOWAS formally approved the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso at its 66th Ordinary Summit in Abuja in December 2024.

According to ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, the three countries are set to officially leave the bloc on January 29, 2025, under Article 91 of the revised ECOWAS Treaty.

WADEMOS warned that the planned departures have cast a shadow of uncertainty over the region, threatening human rights and regional stability.

“The Network calls on President John Mahama to intervene as a trusted democrat and strong believer in the ideals of our founding fathers by engaging personally with the Heads of State of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali to halt the official exit scheduled for January 29, 2025,” the statement said.

The organization urged Mahama to advocate for regional integration, democratic principles, and human rights.

It also called for his support in advancing a revised ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which includes a standardized two-term limit for all Heads of State.

WADEMOS further emphasized the need for other West African leaders to draw lessons from Ghana’s democratic experience to promote credible elections, uphold human rights, and foster inclusive governance.

“The Network remains committed to its pursuit of a free and fair society for all citizens of the region and looks forward to a vibrant, engaging, and productive term with President Mahama at Ghana’s helm of affairs,” it said .