ECOWAS has condemned a military mutiny in Mali which happened on Tuesday in the capital Bamako, saying it would complicate “an already very complex socio-political context.”
In a statement following the reports of the munity, ECOWAS urged the military to return to their barracks and reiterated calls for dialogue to resolve the crisis facing Mali.
Gunfire was heard earlier on Tuesday at an army base outside Bamako, with reports pointing towards the mutiny.
ECOWAS said in its statement it would take action to restore order in the country.
“ECOWAS reiterates its firm opposition to any political change unconstitutional and invites the military to remain in a posture republican,” said the statement.
“In any event, it strongly condemns the current attempt and will take all necessary measures and actions to restore constitutional order, by restoring institutions democratically elected, in accordance with the provisions of its Protocol additional on Good Governance and Democracy.”
The latest development comes amidst a political crisis in Mali, where thousands of protesters have been camping in the streets of the capital city, calling for the resignation of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.
Protests broke out in June, led by an opposition coalition after a contested local election and perceived government corruption.
The West African bloc said in its statement: “ECOWAS reiterates its availability, in relation to the Nations united, the African Union, the European Union and all partners multilateral and bilateral partners of Mali, to continue to support the parties Malian stakeholders in their efforts to resolve the crisis”
