South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party led by Julius Malema has saluted Captain Ibrahim Traore of Burkina Faso, Colonel Assimi Goita of Mali, and General Abdourahmane Tchiani of Niger for their decisive move in signing the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) confederation treaty.
In a statement dated Monday, June 8, EFF party said the decision is a bold step towards greater integration signifying a monumental shift away from Western control.
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The Party explained that the move showcases the resolve of new, young leaders to rid their countries of neo-colonialism and reclaim their sovereignty.
“The signing of the confederation treaty is a clear message to the imperialists: these nations will not be controlled, and they are forging new political alliances that prioritize development and autonomy of their people,” the statement reads in part.
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EFF said Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have emerged as beacons of resistance against imperialist domination in recent years.
However, the party stated that the nations have bravely navigated military takeovers, rejecting the exploitative structures imposed by former colonial powers and their proxies.
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According to EFF, the formation of the AES is a powerful testament to the commitment of the three countries to its sovereignty.
Captain Traore aptly stated, “Westerners consider that we belong to them, and our wealth also belongs to them. This era is gone forever. Our resources will remain for us and our population.”
The Party mentioned that Western powers have historically exploited African states, perpetuating and fueling conflicts to steal resources leaving Africans in dire poverty.
“As a result, in a resolute and revolutionary move, these States have also expelled French troops, companies, and institutions, as well as American naval bases intended for intelligence gathering,” EFF said.
“This decisive action further cements their determination to break free from foreign military presence and control, demonstrating their commitment to sovereignty and self-determination.”
Also Read: Malema Blasts Ruto Over Response After Finance Bill Protests
EFF to Support the 3 Leaders
Malema’s party pledged to stand in solidarity with the people and leaders of the three nations on their transformative journey.
EFF maintained that the confederation treaty is not just a political maneuver but also a powerful declaration of African independence.
“These nations are setting a precedent for the rest of Africa, demonstrating that political and economic liberation is achievable in our lifetime with steadfast resolve and collective action,” EFF said.
The Party applauded the leaders for their commitment to the people and their courageous defiance of neo-colonialism.
It stated that it will remain a staunch ally in the fight for economic freedom and self-determination across the continent.
“Together, we will continue to challenge the remnants of colonial exploitation and build an integrated Africa whose vast mineral wealth serves as economic freedom for the African child,” the party said.
Also Read: Why Burkina Faso Has Extended Military Rule by Five Years
Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Withdrawal from ECOWAS
Additionally, EFF asked African youth to be at the forefront of ridding the continent of all imperialist worshipping leaders.
The Party advised the youth to elect and install African leaders guided by Pan-Africanism and protect them from the western countries.
EFF also hailed the countries for withdrawing from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in January 2024.
The Party explained that the move marked a pivotal moment for these nations since ECOWAS is a proxy for Western interests.
Malema’s Party said the Community has been criticized for its directives dictated by foreign powers hence the need for an alliance rooted in African solidarity.
Govt Takeovers
In August 2021, Colonel Assimi Goita seized power and established a new era of governance in Mali.
Captain Ibrahim Traore spearheaded the Government take-over in September 2022, driven by a vision of liberating Burkina Faso from neo-colonial exploitation.
According to EFF, Traore’s leadership has been instrumental in reclaiming the nation’s resources and steering it towards self-determination.
In Niger, General Abdourahmane Tchiani positioned Niger on a path of independence and resistance against Western exploitation in July 2023.
The Party said Tchiani’s leadership has galvanized the nation to challenge the status quo and seek alliances that serve the interests of its people and development of Niger.
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