Niger Military Seizes Control as President’s Guards Switch Allegiance

Military officers in Niger announce removal of President Bazoum

The Attempted Coup

In a shocking turn of events, military officers in Niger have claimed to have taken power after seizing President Mohamed Bazoum. In a video communique, a man identified as Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane, accompanied by apparent soldiers, announced the end of the current regime, citing a deteriorating security situation and “poor economic and social governance.” The officers have suspended national institutions and closed the country’s land borders, further plunging the nation into uncertainty.

Political Instability in Niger

Niger has a history of military coups since gaining independence from France in 1960. However, the country had experienced relative political stability in recent years. The election of President Bazoum in 2021 marked the country’s first democratic transfer of power. The military’s displeasure with the level of support received in their fight against militants has been cited as a motivator for a potential coup. It is feared that the focus might shift from combating extremist groups encroaching upon Niger to the military’s involvement in domestic politics.

Regional Context

The Sahel region of Africa, which includes Niger, has been grappling with Islamist insurgencies for years. Niger, like its neighbors Mali and Burkina Faso, has witnessed multiple coups in recent times. The presence of poverty, terrorism, and endemic problems has contributed to the instability in Niger, making it one of the world’s poorest nations.

International Condemnation

The attempted coup in Niger has drawn swift international condemnation. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the unconstitutional change of government and called for an immediate end to actions undermining democratic principles. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also denounced the coup and called for the release of the democratically-elected President. The United States, France, and Germany have all expressed concern and called for a restoration of Niger‘s democratic institutions.

The View from the United States

The United States, which has provided support to Niger in its fight against extremists, denounced the attempt to undermine the democratically elected government. US national security adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized that the partnership between the US and Niger relies on the latter’s commitment to democratic standards.

France’s Response

France, a former colonial power in the region, also condemned the attempted coup and echoed the calls of the African Union and ECOWAS to restore Niger‘s democratic institutions. Germany expressed “very great concern” and emphasized that violence should not be used as a means to enforce political or personal interests.

Turmoil and Uncertainty

The situation inside Niger remains uncertain, with the exact whereabouts of President Bazoum unknown. The presidential complex has been sealed off, with armed Presidential Guard members outside. The interior minister has also been arrested and is currently held in the presidential palace along with President Bazoum. Protests in support of Bazoum have taken place, but the guards fired warning shots to block their advance. The city remains calm, but the political stability of Niger hangs in the balance.

International Concern for President Bazoum’s Safety

The international community is deeply concerned for the safety and well-being of President Bazoum. United Nations Secretary-General Guterres expressed his distress over the president‘s detention. Efforts are underway to mediate the situation, with the president of Nigeria engaging in dialogue with the military. The focus now lies on the protection of democratic principles and restoring stability in Niger.

Conclusion

The attempted coup in Niger has sparked international condemnation and raised concerns about the stability of the region. As Niger faces political uncertainty and the threat of militant extremism, it is crucial for the international community to uphold democratic principles and support efforts to restore stability. The situation in Niger serves as a reminder of the fragility of democracies and the need for continuous vigilance in protecting democratic institutions. Moving forward, it will be essential for Niger to address the root causes of political instability, poverty, and terrorism to ensure long-term stability and prosperity for its people.