Supporters of Military Junta Rally in Niger’s Capital Amid Political Turmoil.
In a notable display, hundreds of individuals supportive of the recent coup gathered in Niamey, Niger’s capital, on Sunday. The rally served as a show of solidarity with the military junta responsible for the overthrow of elected president Mohamed Bazoum just last month. Flags of both Niger and Russia waved among the demonstrators, showcasing their allegiance to the cause.
Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader, issued a warning on Saturday, cautioning against external interference. He also unveiled a three-year transition plan and announced that the framework for this transition would be determined within a month through a “dialogue” facilitated by the coup leaders.
In a televised speech following a meeting with a peace delegation from Ecowas (Economic Community of West African States), Gen Tchiani emphasized that the country’s objective was to avoid warfare, while also issuing a stern defense against any foreign intervention. He denounced the Ecowas sanctions placed on the nation, characterizing them as an attempt to weaken and humiliate the country rather than finding a constructive solution.
This defiant stance came after Ecowas mediators engaged in peace negotiations with the junta leaders in a final attempt to diplomatically resolve the political turmoil. Ecowas has indicated that its standby force remains prepared to step in if peaceful resolutions fail to address the crisis effectively.
