ECOWAS Expresses Concern
Over Developments In Cote D'ivoire
Stories by Edoamaowo Udeme
ECOWAS Heads of States and Government recently expressed concern over the recent dissolution of cabinet and the Independent Electoral Commission in Cote d'Ivoire.
In a communique at the end of their one-day Summit in Abuja, the Heads of States said the action would further delay elections in that country.
They called on the Ivorian political class to preserve the peace process, in conformity with the Ouagadougou Political Agreement and Complementary Agreements.
They commended the diplomatic efforts of President Blaisse Compaore of Burkina Faso and Facilitator of the Inter-Ivorian Dialogue, for the progress made so far and urged him to continue the mediation.
On Togo, the Summit noted the forthcoming Presidential Elections originally scheduled for Feb. 28, but was postponed to March 4, due to technical challenges.
It welcomed the planned deployment of a Hybrid Civilian-Military ECOWAS Election Observer Mission as an important confidence-building measure and the commitment of ECOWAS to the consolidation of democracy in that country.
The Summit stressed the need to build on the gains of national reconciliation resulting from the Inter Togolese dialogue.
The Heads of State and Government appealed to stakeholders in the electoral process, to take necessary measures to ensure a peaceful environment for the organisation of free, transparent and credible election.
They urged Member States to make adequate provision for the ratification of ECOWAS protocols and ensure their effective application, to enable the West African people enjoy the benefits of regional integration.
The leaders urged ECOWAS Commission to intensify efforts toward the completion of a Common Market for West Africa in particular.
While commending the ECOWAS Communities' efforts in the negotiation of the text of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), the Summit underscored the need for West Africa and the EU to reach a consensus, particularly on the development dimension.
... Leaders Elect Jonathan As Chairman
Acting President Goodluck Jonathan was recently elected as the Chairman of ECOWAS authority.
Jonathan in his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude for the action, saying that Nigeria's re-election re-affirmed ECOWAS faith and confidence on the country, in spite of the circumstances facing it.
``Let me therefore, reassure you that Nigerians remain strong and unwavering in their belief in the west african institution, peace, unity and progress.
``I Wish to assure of Nigeria's continued commitment to work with the body for the advancement of our common dreams to sustain the regional belief, democracy and development.
``These are the challenges we face and we must confront them as we strive to meet our hopes and aspirations of our people,'' he said.
Jonathan said in each of these challenges, the region had made some tremendous progress, adding that more needed to be accomplished.
``We must not relent in making our sub-region an oasis of peace and tranquility. Under Nigeria's leadership, we must continue to work for peace and tranquility,''
he said.
Newsday, reports that under the ECOWAS chairmanship, countries are allowed to seek for a second term.
Nigeria would be the fifth among such countries that held the chairmanship position for two terms.
Other countries include Mali under President Alpha.
Konare; Ghana, led by President John Kuffour; Niger, led by President Tandja and Burkina Faso, under President Blaise Compaore.
Meanwhile, Dr James Victor Gbeho, the Special Adviser to Ghanaian President Attah Mills, was also elected as the President of the ECOWAS Commission.
