Ending unconstitutional change of government in the Sahel

The political crisis in Niger has escalated as regional sanctions take effect, with Nigeria cutting off electricity supply to the country following the ousting of President Mohamed Bassem from power by the military junta led by Abderrahman Tiani. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has engaged in discussions to address the situation, exploring options to resolve the crisis while emphasizing that military intervention would be a last resort. Ajime Adem, a high representative for the Coalition for the Sahel, shared insights on the current dynamics and the potential paths forward in a recent interview. Adem expressed support for ECOWAS' efforts and highlighted positive steps taken by the organization, including the involvement of respected figures like former president Abu Bakr al-Busrahi and the sultan of Sokoto in mediation attempts. Despite the challenges posed by regional sanctions, Adem emphasized the importance of pursuing negotiations and finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis. The crisis in Niger has raised concerns among Western powers, given the country's strategic importance in the fight against extremist groups in the Sahel region. Balancing the promotion of democracy with security interests presents a delicate challenge for Western allies, who are closely monitoring ECOWAS' response to the crisis. Adem underscored the need for a collaborative approach involving political, military, and civil society stakeholders to address the root causes of instability and prevent further coups in the region. The threat to democracy posed by recurring military interventions in the Sahel region has sparked calls for sustained efforts to address underlying issues such as poverty, human rights abuses, and governance failures. Adem emphasized the urgency of implementing measures to mitigate the risk of future coups and reinforce democratic institutions to foster stability and prosperity. As ECOWAS sets a deadline for the reinstatement of President Bassem and weighs its options, Adem cautioned against the potential destabilizing effects of military intervention in Niger. Regional cooperation and engagement with civil society and political actors are crucial in navigating the crisis and averting further turmoil in the region. In conclusion, Adem expressed hope for a constructive dialogue and a positive outcome to the crisis in Niger, highlighting the need for all stakeholders to work together towards a peaceful resolution. The situation in Niger remains fluid, with ECOWAS facing a critical juncture in its efforts to address the crisis and uphold democratic values in the Sahel region.