ECOWAS appeals for calm in Burkina Faso

Abuja - The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called on people Burkina Faso to remain calm and law abiding over events unfolding and tension around the process leading to the consideration of the draft bill on constitutional amendment.
This was contained in a communiqué signed by John Dramani Mahama Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS in Abuja.
“The Economic Community of West African States (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,” the communiqué read.



The regional body also called on the security forces to respect and act in accordance with the constitution of the Republic. It called 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.
“ECOWAS in line with its principle will not recognize any ascension to power through non constitutional means.”