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The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has kicked against attempts by the leadership of the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) to use military force to restore constitutional rule in Niger.
The GCBC cautioned that the move will pose a dangerous threat therefore the intervention “should not even be contemplated.”
In a meeting held in Abuja, Nigeria on Thursday, August 10, the Authority of Heads of State and Government directed the Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff of member states to mobilise a stand-by force.
The decision follows the recent military takeover in neighbouring country Niger, to stabilize the situation and restore constitutional rule.
However, the bishops said the idea of an Ecowas military intervention in Niger albeit a last option is not an ideal measure.
“The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (henceforward: Conference) notes with grave concern the military intervention in the Republic of Niger which occurred on 26th July, 2023, leading to the overthrow of the democratically elected government of President Mohamed Bozoum in Niger.
“We should note that already Mali and Burkina Faso have dispatched warplanes to Niger in response to a potential military intervention by ECOWAS. Moreover, Burkina Faso has threatened to withdraw from ECOWAS if the bloc intervenes militarily in Niger.
“In line with the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ (cf. John 14:27), we, as a Conference, are opposed to any military intervention against the coup makers in Niger, as this will exacerbate the already precarious situation in that country where civilians such as women, children, aged, weak and vulnerable in society are bearing the biggest brunt of the chaotic situation.”
The statement signed by the Catholic Bishop of Sunyani and President, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi further urged the Ghana government to refrain from the use of force and likewise urged its colleague leaders to do same.
