ECOWAS leaders meet on Burkina Faso crisis

WEST African leaders have held a one-day summit in Abuja to find a solution to the political stalemate in Burkina Faso.

The meeting, which was hosted by President Muhammadu Buhari followed a visit by a delegation from the Economic Community of West States  to the country last Thursday.

The summit which held under the aegis of the Authorities of ECOWAS Heads of States and Governments, was to review the outcome of ECOWAS delegation visit to Burkina Faso for an on-the-spot assessment.

In his welcome remark, Buhari described the development in Burkina Faso as far below democratic expectations, noting that efforts being made so far were to correct the anomaly.

He commended the Presidents of Senegal, Macky Sall and his Benin Republic counterpart, Boni Yayi and the President of ECOWAS Commission, who undertook the visit to Ouagadougou last week to commence the process of engagement with the military junta.

He expressed delight that there were reports of some measure of understanding towards the resolution of the crisis.

Sall in his remarks proposed the shift of the election in the country from October 11 to November 21, 2015 to ensure  inclusiveness of all candidates to contest the forthcoming polls.

He proposed an amnesty for the coup plotters to enhance national cohesion for the common good of the country.

He however said the suggestion for amnesty was not aimed at encouraging impunity but to guarantee peace and unity of the country.