Mali’s military junta “strongly” condemned the “illegal” sanctions imposed on the country by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), following Sunday’s double summit in Accra.
On Sunday January 09, 2021, President Nana Akufo-Addo chaired an ECOWAS summit after that of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA/ WAEMU).
The two institutions imposed a series of economic and diplomatic sanctions in response to the desire of the Malian military leaders to extend the transition to four years.
The military spokesman, Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga, said on Monday in a statement that “the government of Mali strongly condemns these illegal and illegitimate sanctions”.
“On the basis of reciprocity, Mali has decided to recall its ambassadors and to close its land and air borders with the states concerned,” he added.
“The government of Mali regrets that West African sub-regional organizations are being exploited by extra-regional powers with ulterior motives,” insisted the junta.
After the August 2020 coup d’état led by Colonel Assimi Goïta, the military therefore promised to restore a civilian regime in February 2022 after the holding of general elections.
However, they staged a second de facto coup last May, forcing an interim civilian government. The move disrupted the reform agenda and met with widespread diplomatic condemnation. Obviously, the leaders want more time to bring stability to their country.
Source: AfrikPage