Supporters of the Military Coup Gather Outside French Embassy

Thousands of supporters of the military coup in Niger gathered outside the French embassy in Niamey on Sunday, July 30th. However, their demonstration was met with tear gas grenades that dispersed the crowd. This rally received strong condemnation from France, with President Emmanuel Macron making it clear that he would not tolerate any attack against France and its interests in Niger. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned the violence against diplomatic premises and called on the Nigerien forces to ensure the security of French diplomatic and consular facilities.

Defiance Against the Ban on Protests

The demonstration began with a march towards the National Assembly. The crowd proudly waved Russian and Nigerien flags, showing their support for the military coup. It is worth noting that the civil movement M62, which had previously protested against the French military operation "Barkhane" in the Sahel and Sahara, called for this demonstration. Despite the junta's ban on protests, the supporters gathered to make their voices heard.

Convergence on the French Embassy

After marching towards the National Assembly, the protesters converged on the French embassy. Some individuals even attempted to enter the building, while others took down the embassy plaque and replaced it with Russian and Nigerien flags. The crowd passionately chanted slogans in support of Russia and the Nigerien army, as well as in support of General Abdourahamane Tiani, the self-proclaimed leader of the country.

International Response and Ultimatums

In response to the coup, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held an extraordinary summit. They issued several resolutions, including a one-week ultimatum for the coup leaders to restore constitutional order. ECOWAS warned that they would not hesitate to use force if their demands were not met. Additionally, they called for the immediate release of President Bazoum and the complete return to constitutional order in Niger. To put pressure on the coup leaders, ECOWAS imposed financial sanctions, such as the suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS member states and Niger, as well as the freezing of the assets of the coup leaders.

Strong Condemnation and Concerns for the Future

The coup in Niger has faced strong condemnation from Western partners, including France, the European Union, and the United Nations. All of them have called for the release of President Bazoum and the restoration of constitutional order. As a result, France has suspended its development aid to Niger, and the European Union has halted all cooperation with the country. The African Union has also given the coup leaders a 15-day ultimatum to restore constitutional authority. The United States has expressed its support for President Bazoum and the efforts to restore constitutional order in Niger. This coup raises concerns about the future of the partnership between France and Niger in the fight against terrorism in the Sahel region.

Words of the day

Embassy : Ambassade

Ultimatum : Ultimatum