The Economic Community of West African States, has warned against hijack of power through violent means in Burkina Faso, saying it will not recognize ascension to power through non-constitutional means.
The community called for calm following the violence that erupted in the country over moves by President Blaise Compaoré to add a further term to his 27 years in office.
Compaore had declared a state of emergency and dissolved the government on Thursday, but also offered negotiations with his adversaries after a day of fiery protests against his plans to elongate his tenure.
But a statement signed by the Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS and Ghanaian President, John Mahama, emailed to our correspondent in Abuja on Thursday, said it was following 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.
It said that it had taken note of the decision by the government to withdraw the passing of the draft bill, and believed that it was geared towards preserving the stability and peace in the country.
The regional body reiterated the need for compliance with the principle of democracy and constitutional governance as stipulated in the ECOWAS protocol on democracy and good governance.
It said, “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.
“ECOWAS, in line with its principle, will not recognize any ascension to power through non-constitutional means.”
via nigerianeye
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