The Economic Community of the West African States, (ECOWAS) has said, that it would not recognise any ascension of power through non-constitutional means in Burkina Faso.
“ECOWAS, in line with its principle, will not recognize any ascension to power through non constitutional means”, Chairman of ECOWAS John Mahama said in a statement released Thursday evening.
Protesters set fire to Burkina Faso’s parliament over plans to extend President Blaise Compaore’s 27-year-rule.
Members of Parliament had to suspend a vote on changing the constitution to allow Mr Compaore to stand for re-election next year.
Mr Compaore first took power in a coup in 1987, and has won four disputed elections since then.
Mahama, who is also President of neighbouring Ghana, in the statement added that “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”.
Source: tarrfmonline.com
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