The Standing Strategic Framework for the Defence of the People of Azawad (Cadre Strategique Permanent pour la Defense du Peuple de l’Azawad – CSP-DPA) has expressed its “perplexity” at the reactions of Senegal and ECOWAS to the recent clashes in Tinzaouatene, denying in particular any accusation of terrorism.
The CSP-DPA, a politico-military organisation formed by the signatory movements of the former Algiers Agreement, has reacted strongly to the statements made by Senegal and ECOWAS, following the clashes in Tinzaouatene on 25, 26 and 27 July 2024.
In a statement published on 6 August, the organisation noted the version of events presented by these players and offers its own interpretation of the facts.
According to CSP-DPA, its forces, on a mission to protect displaced civilians in Tinzaouatene, were “deliberately attacked” by “Russian mercenaries from the Wagner group” accompanied by elements of the Malian army. The organisation claims to have defended itself against this attack and rejects all accusations of terrorism.
The statement decries the reaction of the countries and organisations, which, according to CSP-DPA, should be well informed about the political situation pitting the movement against the central authorities in Bamako. The organisation deplores what it describes as “silence,” “ignorance” or “denial of reality.”
The CSP-DPA strongly criticises the silence of the international community, particularly African states and organisations, in the face of “serious crimes committed against civilians by international mercenaries employed by the Bamako putschists.”
The organisation goes so far as accusing the government in Bamako and Wagner’s Russian mercenaries of carrying out “ethnic cleansing” against certain communities in Azawad and central Mali.
The communiqué calls on Senegal, ECOWAS and the other players involved to reconsider their position. In particular, the CSP-DPA calls on Dakar “to analyse the situation more closely in order to avoid contributing to the confusion that is being fostered to the detriment of peace in the sub-region.”
Finally, the organisation urges ECOWAS to focus on the return to constitutional order in Mali, the release of political prisoners and prisoners of conscience, and the withdrawal of mercenaries and Wagner forces, rather than supporting what it considers to be human rights violations by Bamako.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 5, 2024, the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, expressed its deep concern at the deteriorating security situation in Mali, particularly following the recent attacks on members of the Malian defence and security forces in Tinzaouatene, in the north of the country. This attack costs the lives of several Malian soldiers.
The ECOWAS Commission “strongly condemned this violence” and expressed its “sincere condolences to the Malian government, the people of the Republic of Mali and the bereaved families.”
It also expressed its unwavering support for Mali at this difficult time, while reiterating its commitment to peace and stability in the region. The regional institution also took the opportunity to “express its firm disapproval and condemnation of any foreign interference in the region that may constitute a threat to peace and security in West Africa.”
For its part, Senegal also “condemned in the strongest terms the attack committed by these terrorist groups on Malian soil.” Dakar also renewed “its unwavering solidarity with the government and people of Mali” and presented “its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims,” while wishing “a speedy recovery to the injured.”
ARD/te/Sf/fss/GIK/APA