Sanmatenga Association Supports Burkina Faso’s Withdrawal from ECOWAS Amid Calls for StabilityMetropolitan Archbishop of Ouagadougou Symbolizes Peace Hopes for Burkina Faso with Dove Release

KAYA — On Sunday, February 4, 2024, the Unique Voice of Sanmatenga, a youth association, gathered at the Kaya parade square to publicly endorse the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

According to Burkina Information Agency, this event marks a significant stance against any efforts to destabilize the ongoing political transitions within these countries.

The assembly, highlighted by the presence of vuvuzelas, whistles, and flags of Burkina Faso and Russia, showcased participants donning t-shirts featuring Captain Ibrahim Traoré and Colonel Assimi Goïta. The protestors criticized ECOWAS for its perceived failure to assist in addressing the security and humanitarian crises faced by the states of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), accusing the organization of undue allegiance to France and other imperialist entities in its sanctions against the three nations.

Amidst the protest, artists performed impromptu songs praising the AES Heads of State for their decisive withdrawal from ECOWAS. A symbolic act of defiance saw the burning of a coffin adorned with the ECOWAS logo, signaling collective approval of the withdrawal, which the crowd greeted with cheers.

Issa Lagvaré, head of the meeting’s organizing committee, lauded the withdrawal as a bold step towards the complete liberation of these states and encouraged the Sanmatenga population to support Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the President of the Transition. He emphasized the sacrifices being made in pursuit of victory in their struggle.

Joseph Bamogo, vice-president of the Unique Voice of Sanmatenga, highlighted the urgent call for the creation of an independent AES currency as a critical issue, advocating for monetary sovereignty to achieve economic independence for Africa. The event drew support from various community leaders, including the representative of the canton chief of Sanmatnega, economic operators, and representatives from the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) and local gold miners, all voicing their rejection of ECOWAS.

OUAGADOUGOU — In a symbolic gesture advocating for peace in Burkina Faso, the newly appointed Metropolitan Archbishop of Ouagadougou, Mgr Prospère Kontiébo, released a dove during a mass at the start of the diocese’s pilgrimage. This event took place on Sunday at Notre Dame de Yagma hill, located at the northern outskirts of the capital city.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this marks Mgr Kontiébo’s first leadership of the significant gathering of the Catholic faithful since his enthronement on December 16, 2023.

The act of releasing a dove, emblematic of peace, underscored Mgr Kontiébo’s deep desire for the restoration of tranquility in Burkina Faso amid ongoing societal challenges. The mass, which commenced the pilgrimage, was themed around the active participation of laypersons in both the church and societal roles, encouraging the faithful to “occupy your place and play your role in the church and in society.”

This message, delivered ten days before the commencement of Lent, reflects the archbishop’s vision for a community engaged in both spiritual growth and social responsibility, aiming to foster a harmonious society.