The Authority of Heads of State of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has asked the military junta in Mali to appoint a civilian transition head by 15 September.
Daily Times had earlier reported that Mali’s military ousted President Ibrahim Boubacar on 18 August following a protracted internal conflict in the country.
The 75-year-old Boubakar and his Prime Minister Boubou Cisse were arrested alongside other top government functionaries in the wake of the military coup.
After suffering a decline of his health status, the former president was flown abroad for medical treatment upon his release.
ECOWAS had in August asked the military to appoint a civilian head to lead the transitional government, but did not announce any definitive deadline at the time.
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Monday’s announcement effectively gives the military junta only eight days to cede power to a civilian, who according to ECOWAS would not participate in the country’s next presidential election.
“The Authority takes note of the Report of the Mediation and Security Council meeting at the ministerial level, on the political and security situation in the region and the recommendations contained therein.
“The Authority reaffirms its commitment to the promotion of peace, security and stability in the region, the prerequisite for the economic integration and development of the region.
“Regarding the situation in Mali, the Authority reaffirmed its determination to ensure that constitutional order is quickly restored in Mali, with a political transition led by a civilian President and Prime Minister for twelve months.
The Authority maintains all the decisions taken at its extraordinary Summit of 28 August 2020 and notes the ongoing consultations between the Malian stakeholders initiated by the National Council for the People’s Salvation (CNSP).
“Authority directs that the Head of Transition and Prime Minister, both civilians, be appointed no later than 15 September. Authority welcomes the departure of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita for medical treatment abroad and wishes him a speedy recovery,” the statement from the meeting said.
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