The Dynamics of Leadership and Unity within UEMOA

In the intricate web of West African geopolitics, the Union Économique et Monétaire Ouest Africaine (UEMOA) stands as a testament to regional cooperation. However, beneath its surface of unity, there exists tension and discord among its member states, particularly concerning leadership dynamics. This analysis delves into an incident that highlighted these tensions: the rejection of the UEMOA’s rotating presidency by certain members, an event that underscored deeper issues within the union.

In July 2026, a significant rift emerged when countries aligned with the Alliance des États de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (AES) walked out from the second ordinary session of the UEMOA Council of Ministers in Lomé, Togo. The bone of contention was the failure to reach a consensus on awarding Burkina Faso its turn at the presidency, as per the rotational system outlined in Article 11 of the UEMOA Treaty. This incident shed light on underlying power struggles and dissatisfaction among some member states.

Burkina Faso, alongside Niger and Mali, accused others within the union of undermining the treaty’s provisions by not respecting the rotation principle for the council presidency. They argued that certain members sought to monopolize control over the entire West African region, a claim that stirred considerable controversy. This accusation was notably articulated by Burkina Faso’s President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who expressed his frustration at this perceived hegemony.

Captain Traoré’s stance was unequivocal: if true governance and respect for agreed-upon protocols were not upheld, then those feeling marginalized had every right to reconsider their association with UEMOA. His words suggested a readiness to depart from the union should these grievances remain unaddressed, highlighting the fragility of regional alliances in face of internal discord.

The incident at Lomé is emblematic of broader challenges facing UEMOA and similar entities across Africa: balancing national interests with collective goals, ensuring equitable participation in leadership roles, and navigating historical tensions. It raises critical questions about governance models within such unions and their ability to accommodate diverse member states’ aspirations without fracturing.

Moreover, the episode reflects on the concept of sovereignty in a regional context—how member states negotiate their autonomy within supranational structures aiming for greater economic integration and political stability. As West Africa continues its quest for unity amidst diversity, incidents like the one at Lomé serve as crucial learning points, urging leaders to foster dialogue, respect treaties, and prioritize the collective well-being over individual ambitions.

In conclusion, the fallout from UEMOA’s presidency rotation dispute underscores a pivotal moment for regional cooperation in West Africa. It calls for introspection among member states regarding their commitment to shared objectives and the mechanisms of leadership within unions like UEMOA. The path forward lies not just in resolving such disputes but in building resilient frameworks that can withstand internal tensions, ensuring that the vision of an integrated and prosperous West Africa remains attainable.

原始文章来源：Seneweb