The Coup in Niger

In Niger, General Abdourahamane Tchiani has taken control of the ongoing coup d'état to overthrow President Mohamed Bazoum. Formerly the head of the presidential guard, Tchiani has now declared himself the leader of the coup. Currently, Bazoum and his family are being held hostage by Tchiani in the presidential residence in Niamey, the capital. In a televised address, Tchiani assured that the National Council for the Safeguard of the Nation is committed to respecting all international commitments. He also called upon Niger's partners and friends to have faith in their defense and security forces.

International Response

The European Union (EU) and France have strongly condemned the coup in Niger. The EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, has warned of the suspension of financial aid to Niger if the constitutional order is not restored. French President Emmanuel Macron, who is currently in Papua New Guinea, has also condemned the military coup and demanded the release of President Bazoum. Macron will preside over a defense council meeting in Paris to discuss the situation in Niger. France, with its 1,500 troops stationed in Niger, considers the country a crucial partner in the Sahel region.

Support for President Bazoum

The United States has expressed its support for President Bazoum and condemned the coup in Niger. Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured Bazoum of the unwavering support of the United States. He also emphasized that the coup puts at risk hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to Niger. The international community stands united in calling for the restoration of constitutional order and the release of President Bazoum.

Regional Impact

Niger's military has accused France of violating border closures by landing a military aircraft at Niamey International Airport. The military putschists have imposed strict compliance with their directives and have suspended political party activities indefinitely. Pro-putschist demonstrations have taken place in Niamey, with Russian flags being waved and anti-French slogans being chanted. The coup in Niger follows similar events in Mali and Burkina Faso, making it the third Sahel country to experience a coup since 2020. The instability in the region has led to an increase in terrorist attacks by groups affiliated with ISIS and Al-Qaeda.

Concluding Thoughts

General Abdourahamane Tchiani's seizure of power in Niger through a military coup has been met with condemnation from the international community. The European Union, France, and the United States have all called for the restoration of constitutional order and the release of President Bazoum. Regional organizations such as ECOWAS are closely monitoring the situation and discussing possible sanctions. The coup in Niger highlights the ongoing instability in the Sahel region and the challenges faced by countries in combating terrorism.

Words of the day

Coup : Coup d'état

Condemned : Condamné