The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed its disappointment with the decision of Mali’s president, Colonel Assimi Gota, to extend the transition period by 24 months from March 26, 2022.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the regional bloc expressed disappointment that the decision was made at a time when efforts to establish a consensus are still ongoing.
ECOWAS’ mediator, on the other hand, stated that talks with the Malian government will continue in order to reach a mutually acceptable transition date.
Mali’s ruling junta, which took power in an August 2020 coup, issued a decree on Monday establishing a 24-month timetable that would begin in March 2022.
The 15-nation alliance has been pressing for a 16-month extension at the maximum. ECOWAS imposed sanctions in January when the Mali junta announced that democratic elections would not be held the following month as planned.
Before July 3, heads of state from ECOWAS member countries are due to meet again in Mali.
