ECOWAS must reflect on setbacks and forge a new path - Emmanuel Bombande

Emmanuel Bombande, a former Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, spoke on JoyNews' NewsDesk. He urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to reflect deeply on recent crises.

Bombande emphasized that real change must start from within ECOWAS. He highlighted the need for the organization to review its past decisions and mistakes. Recent military takeovers and political turmoil in member states illustrate these shortcomings.

He stated, “You’re more effective when you introspect and ask critical questions.” Bombande stressed that ECOWAS must acknowledge its failures. It needs to understand why it seemed unprepared for foreseeable crises.

“How did this setback hit us so badly?” he asked. “I believe we did see it coming.” He suggested that introspection could help strengthen ECOWAS politically.

Poor governance is a major challenge facing regional unity, according to Bombande. He noted that many issues arise from leaders who resist change and accountability.

“Some of our leaders want to be in power forever,” he said. This situation blurs the lines between constitutional and military coups in West Africa.

To effectively respond to member states withdrawing or being suspended, Bombande argued for a broader focus. It should not just be about economic negotiations or trade deals.

“The real work is about political will,” he asserted.