Former Malian Prime Minister Choguel Maïga has called for renewed cooperation between the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), despite the recent withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the regional bloc.
In a Facebook post, Maïga explained that the move by the three Sahel countries should be seen as a difference in vision, not a complete break.
He criticized ECOWAS for what he described as unfair sanctions, especially the embargo placed on Mali, which he believes violates international rules protecting landlocked nations.
Maïga also expressed concern about the heavy influence of foreign influence in ECOWAS decisions, particularly pointing to the constant involvement of Western partners in meetings, which, he argued, weakens the independence of African states.
Despite these concerns, Maïga welcomed a recent meeting in Bamako between AES representatives and the ECOWAS Commission on May 22, 2025, which opened the door to future collaboration in politics, economics, and regional security.
Both sides agreed to uphold key principles like the free movement of people and goods.
Maïga, a key figure in Mali’s June 5 Movement (M5-RFP), served as Prime Minister from June 2021 until his removal in November 2024 after opposing an extension of the political transition. His successor, Abdoulaye Maïga, was appointed the next day by presidential decree.
