Togo is contemplating joining the Alliance of Sahel States, which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Foreign Minister Robert Dussey emphasizes that this membership could enhance regional cooperation and provide essential sea access for the landlocked nations. Analysts suggest potential economic and military benefits, alongside concerns regarding Togo’s relationship with ECOWAS and domestic governance issues.
Togo is considering joining the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), composed of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, all of which are governed by military juntas. Foreign Minister Robert Dussey has been vocal about the potential membership, asserting that it could reinforce regional cooperation and provide advantageous sea access to the landlocked nations. Commenting on the strategic importance, he said, “Togo is considering joining the AES, a strategic decision that could strengthen regional cooperation and offer access to the sea to member countries.”
The port access is crucial for the trio of countries, which are currently navigating tensions with Ivory Coast and Benin for their perceived alignment with Western powers. Analysts suggest that Togo’s inclusion could boost trade opportunities and facilitate economic solidarity, particularly regarding resources like Nigerien oil. Madi Djabakate, a Togolese political analyst, remarked, “There’s the hope of economic solidarity: access to Nigerien oil, renewed trade routes.”
In addition to economic incentives, Togo could achieve enhanced military cooperation and intelligence sharing with AES nations. This is significant as jihadist activity has been on the rise in northern Togo, particularly near the Burkina Faso border. The junta leaders in the AES have declared plans to form a joint force of 5,000 troops to combat these threats, as they aim to recover lost sovereignty. Djabakate noted, “By engaging with the AES, Togo is part of a pan-African narrative where nations, long divided, are learning to stand together.”
President Faure Gnassingbe, who has governed since 2005, may find support through this emerging pan-Africanism narrative, which aligns with a resistance to pressure for immediate elections. Togo’s shift towards the AES has raised questions about its standing with ECOWAS, where some view this approach as a diversion from criticism of the current government.
Critics, including opposition figure Nathaniel Olympio, argue that AES membership would undermine commitments to rule of law and public freedoms associated with ECOWAS. The AES nations have distanced themselves from the bloc, accusing it of alignment with French interests. Seidik Abba, director at the International Center for Studies and Reflections on the Sahel, points out that Togo has historically maintained a relationship with these military regimes and has even acted as a mediator between them and ECOWAS.
Djabakate indicates that Togo could simultaneously belong to both ECOWAS and the AES, suggesting, “Alliances aren’t marriages, but rather partnerships.” He emphasizes Togo’s commitment to maintaining ties with ECOWAS due to the strategic importance of its port in Lome. However, experts caution that Togo’s move towards AES could exacerbate pressures on ECOWAS, with Abba noting that Togo’s participation could accelerate regional fragmentation.
Togo’s prospective membership in the Alliance of Sahel States reflects a strategic shift towards enhanced regional cooperation and economic opportunities. This move, while improving trade routes and military collaboration, raises concerns about Togo’s relationship with ECOWAS and the implications for democratic governance. The country’s leadership appears to navigate a complex balance between these alliances while addressing internal political challenges and regional security threats.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
