Hundreds of individuals gathered in the capital of Niger to show their support for the ruling junta and denounce France and other critics of the recent coup. The military leaders hoped to capitalize on anti-Western sentiment to solidify their control. The protest, organized by the junta and civil society groups, gained momentum on Niger’s independence day as demonstrators pumped their fists and expressed support for neighboring countries that had also experienced military takeovers. Some even waved Russian flags, highlighting the shift in alliances. The recent coup dethroned President Mohamed Bazoum, who represented Niger’s first peaceful and democratic transfer of power since gaining independence from France. The coup has ignited strong condemnation from Western countries and the West African regional bloc ECOWAS, which has threatened military intervention if the junta does not relinquish power to Bazoum. As tensions continue to rise, several European countries have begun evacuating their citizens. Notably, the coup has revealed a division among the population’s sentiments towards the takeover. While many expressed support for the coup leaders and rejected interference from outsiders, others carried on with their daily lives. General Abdourahmane Tchiani, the new military ruler, delivered a national address calling on the population to defend the nation against those who opposed the coup. Tchiani criticized the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS and emphasized that Niger would face difficult times ahead. A closed-door meeting between civil society organizations, professional groups, trade unions, and the coup leaders discussed the country’s future vision. One group emphasized the immediate departure of all foreign forces, while others expressed concern about the potential expulsion of the French military. The presence of French troops in Niger has been vital in combating jihadis linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. The coup’s impact on the relationship between Niger and its Western partners has become a central issue. Mali and Burkina Faso, neighboring countries ruled by juntas, turned towards Moscow, raising questions about Niger’s foreign alliances. The French Embassy in Niamey was attacked by protesters, prompting the French government to request increased security measures from Niger’s government. The French military has evacuated over 1,000 people from the region. The United States has also ordered the temporary departure of nonessential embassy staff and some family members as a precaution. President Joe Biden called for President Bazoum’s release and the restoration of democracy, emphasizing that the people of Niger have the right to choose their leaders. Nigeria also cut off power transmission to Niger, exacerbating the country’s already unreliable electricity supply. Despite the coup, the State Department has confirmed that the U.S. embassy in Niger will remain open.
Niger’s Military Leaders Consolidate Support as Capital Witnesses Massive Rally
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