Following political chaos in Burkina Faso, ECOWAS Chairman John Mahama has reiterated the regional body’s principle of non-recognition of leaders who rise to power through unconstitutional means.
In a statement from the Presidency last Thursday night, President Mahama drew the attention of the political class in the West African country to work within the ECOWAS protocol on democracy and good governance to stabilise the country.
Read below full statement:-
ECOWAS has followed with grave attention the events unfolding in Burkina Faso and the tension around the process leading to the consideration of the draft bill on constitutional amendment.
ECOWAS takes note of the decision by the government to withdraw the passing of this draft bill.
ECOWAS believes that this decision is geared towards preserving the stability and peace in the country. To this end, it reiterates the need for compliance with the principle of democracy and constitutional governance as stipulated in the ECOWAS protocol on democracy and good governance.
ECOWAS calls on all the people to remain calm and law abiding, and the security forces to respect and act in accordance with the constitution of the Republic. It also calls on all the parties involved, notably the entire political class to embrace dialogue with a view to arriving at a political consensus that will lead to free, fair and credible election consistent with constitutional provisions.