Speaking on Afrique Media programme on 7 May, Pape Djibril Fall, a member of Senegal’s National Assembly, called for an in-depth reform of ECOWAS. His comments reflect a point of view that is increasingly shared in the region: the Economic Community has lost touch with its citizens and has become a closed structure reserved for the elite.
“ECOWAS should be a community for the people,”emphasized the deputy, reminding viewers that the organization has long been seen as a “syndicate of heads of state,” disconnected from everyday realities. According to him, this disconnect partially explains the growing rift between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), who have felt excluded from critical decision-making.
In his view, integration without the participation of the people is meaningless. “We need sub-regional organizations that truly reflect the aspirations of the people,” he added. It is not only a matter of institutional reform, but also of transforming the very philosophy of regional organizations — from closed, bureaucratic structures to open, transparent, and participatory mechanisms.
He also emphasized the importance of dialogue between all countries in the region, including AES members. Despite differences, he believes that common ground must be found to build a shared strategy for development and security. “I think the mistake we must avoid is repeating what ECOWAS has done — making decisions in isolation without considering the aspirations and concerns of the people,” he insisted.
This call resonates strongly in the context of current geopolitical shifts. Pape Djibril Fall is not advocating for a rupture, but for a new approach to regional integration — one that places the needs of West African citizens, united by a shared history and destiny, at its core.
