The leader of the coup in Niger, Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, has assured that the West African nation will transition back to civilian governance within a span of three years.
This declaration came after a meeting with mediators from the West African regional bloc Ecowas in the capital city of Niamey.
Ecowas has issued a warning of potential military intervention if negotiations fail to reverse the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum, which occurred the previous month.
Gen Tchiani, in a televised address on Saturday evening, emphasized Niger’s reluctance for warfare but underscored its determination to safeguard itself against any external intervention. He cautioned against underestimating the challenges of a hypothetical attack.
The coup leader also reiterated his criticism of what he referred to as “unlawful and inhumane” sanctions imposed by Ecowas on Niger. These measures include electricity cuts that have resulted in blackouts in major cities like Niamey and the obstruction of critical imports. This has led to extended delays for truck drivers awaiting the delivery of supplies, subsequently causing a surge in food prices.
Gen Tchiani argued that these sanctions are not intended to facilitate a resolution but rather to weaken and humiliate the country. Both the United States and France, both of which maintain military bases in Niger, support regional efforts to reverse the coup. These bases are crucial in combating jihadist groups across the broader Sahel region.
The junta leader, who formerly headed the presidential guard and seized power on July 26, warned that military intervention could exacerbate the Islamist insurgencies linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group. He commended the effectiveness and bravery of Niger’s defense and security forces in preventing the destabilization of the region by terrorist elements.
This coup mirrors recent similar takeovers in neighboring Burkina Faso and Mali. Additionally, the influence of Russia in the broader Sahel region is expanding through its Wagner mercenary group.
Although Gen Tchiani did not provide specific details about the power transfer, he stated that the transition’s guiding principles would be determined within 30 days through a “dialogue” facilitated by the coup leaders.
Ecowas has not yet responded to this announcement but noted that during their visit, mediators also held discussions with Mr. Bazoum, who has been under detention alongside his wife and son since the coup.
The delegation was led by former Nigerian military leader Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar and included Nigeria’s most prominent Muslim figure, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’adu Abubakar III, who holds significant influence in Niger due to the historical authority of the Sokoto Caliphate.
The meeting on Saturday marked the first encounter between the junta leaders and Ecowas representatives.
Source – citinewsroom.com
