AES: The peoples of the three countries send a strong message...

The Burkinabe, Malians, and Nigeriens, now united by an alliance, sharing the same aspirations and ambitions within a common space known as the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), sent a powerful message on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. This took place during a popular demonstration organized across these countries to mark the first anniversary of their withdrawal from the West African organization, ECOWAS.

The demonstration witnessed an unprecedented enthusiasm from the population in each country, responding to the call of opinion leaders and civic watchdogs. It was a way for them to express their satisfaction with the decisions made by their revolutionary and visionary leaders, namely the heads of state of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. These countries’ exit from ECOWAS, seen as an instrument serving imperialist and neocolonial interests, brought joy to many.

This explains the unprecedented mobilization of the populations to express their joy. For these citizens of the AES, it is a response to their aspirations, opening the way to true freedom without the grip of neocolonial powers and total sovereignty. This massive demonstration observed across the three countries of the confederation reflects, according to observers, the strong desire of these populations to regain their dignity and the integrity of their states.

ECOWAS, having failed for decades to meet their expectations, made separation the only way to escape French hegemony. The demonstration was also a way to express their support for the presidents of the three countries, who have shown enlightened leadership, courage, boldness, and loyalty to their nations. Therefore, this demonstration is a testament to the confidence that the protesters have in their leaders.

Moreover, the Malian Minister of Foreign Affairs had reassured on Sunday, January 26, of the determination of the authorities in the three countries to lead their nations toward their destined future.