At a high-level summit in Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, Bassolma Bazié, President of the National Commission of the Confederation of Sahel States (CN-CES), delivered a forceful defense of the sovereignty sought by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Addressing a gallery of African officials from ECOWAS and the African Union, Bazié framed the current regional struggle not as a request for recognition, but as a deliberate conquest of political and security autonomy. He specifically lauded Togo for its strategic partnership, noting that the neighboring state has played a vital role in maintaining critical trade flows and ensuring continued access to defense equipment despite regional pressures.
Bazié used the platform to launch a sharp critique of international human rights organizations and global governance standards. He challenged the methodology of external reports, alleging they are often compiled via unverified telephone calls rather than adversarial field assessments, and he condemned the use of what he called ambiguous terminology regarding jihadist groups. Furthermore, the Burkinabè official denounced accusations directed at regional security forces and made the unsubstantiated claim that “strategic assassination plans” have been formulated against Sahelian leaders. He dismissed calls for a rapid return to conventional constitutional order, labeling such systems an “imported democracy” that fails to reflect the lived realities of the Sahel.
On the domestic front, Bazié highlighted the socioeconomic milestones achieved under the leadership of Captain Ibrahim Traoré since 2022. He pointed to the significant mobilization of 541.2 billion CFA francs by the population as evidence of national unity and a commitment to self-reliance. He also cited major reforms in the health and agricultural sectors, including the deployment of mobile clinics, the elimination of certain medical deposits, and heavy investments in agricultural mechanization. Concluding his remarks, Bazié reaffirmed that the AES countries are resolutely committed to diversifying their military partnerships and reclaiming their cultural and economic sovereignty, regardless of the challenges ahead.
HO/te/lb/abj/APA