Togo is considering joining the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This move could significantly enhance regional cooperation and trade access through Togo’s ports. However, concerns regarding its relationship with ECOWAS and implications for internal politics arise amidst a backdrop of growing jihadist activity.
Togo is contemplating membership in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which comprises the junta-led nations of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Foreign Minister Robert Dussey has intensified discussions regarding the alliance. In a recent social media statement, he suggested that Togo’s membership could enhance regional cooperation and provide significant port access to the landlocked nations, thereby facilitating vital trade opportunities.
Access to coastal ports is essential for these countries adversely affected by jihadist violence. In light of their increasing isolation from Ivory Coast and Benin, both accused of proximity to Western interests, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have begun utilizing Togo’s port in Lomé. Analysts believe that Togo’s potential membership could bolster economic relationships and improve military collaboration, bolstering the regional response to jihadists operating in the area.
The AES leaders face ongoing challenges in combating jihadist groups that threaten stability. They have proposed the formation of a joint military force consisting of 5,000 troops. Togo’s support for AES reflects a common desire among these nations to reclaim sovereignty and distance themselves from historical ties to France, promoting instead new alliances with Russia and other partners.
Political analysts argue that Togo’s engagement with the AES is an attempt to create diversions from domestic challenges, such as opposition criticism of a new constitution enabling President Faure Gnassingbé to extend his rule. Some interpret this developing alliance as aligning Togo more closely with the juntas in a bid to avoid political transitions.
Concerns have been raised by opposition figures regarding the implications of distancing Togo from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Membership in AES could shield Togo’s regime from ECOWAS’s oversight of governance standards. However, Togo has historically cultivated beneficial relations with these military governments and has mediated between ECOWAS and the junta regimes.
Political analyst Madi Djabakate posits that Togo could navigate both memberships, maintaining ties to ECOWAS while exploring new alliances. He emphasized that partnerships are flexible and that Togo remains committed to its connections in the region, particularly since its port in Lomé is vital for regional trade.
Nevertheless, were Togo to join AES, analysts predict it could contribute to the erosion of ECOWAS’s effectiveness, potentially exacerbating existing regional tensions and instability.
In summary, Togo is assessing the strategic benefits of joining the Alliance of Sahel States, which could provide significant advantages such as improved access to ports and enhanced economic and military cooperation. While this shift reflects evolving geopolitical dynamics and a distancing from ECOWAS, experts advise that Togo might still maintain ties with both entities. The outcome of this potential membership could have far-reaching implications for regional politics and stability.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
