The news in Niger: Rallies in support of the military junta
August 3 marks the National Day in Niger, celebrating the 63rd anniversary of the country’s independence. However, this year the festivities were marked by the absence of a military parade due to the current political situation. Instead, rallies in support of the ruling military junta took place in Niamey, the country’s capital.
Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Place de la Concertation, wearing clothes in the colors of Niger and wearing insignia of General Abdourahamane Tchiani, commander of the Presidential Guard and president of the National Committee for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP). These rallies were organized to express their support for the putschist soldiers and to fight against foreign interference, in particular that of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The demonstration passed off peacefully, with speeches given by civil society members of the M62 coalition, known for its opposition to the French military presence. Slogans hostile to ECOWAS and the French presence were heard throughout the demonstration, but without major incidents.
This mobilization in favor of the junta also extended to Agadez, an emblematic city in the center of the country. Hundreds of people came out to express their support, marking a change of position in this region since the beginning of the political crisis.
However, despite these gatherings, the situation remains tense, especially with the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS on Niger. The putschists were given a one-week ultimatum to lay down their arms, but the country faces significant challenges in finding a solution to this political crisis.
Overall, these rallies in support of the military junta reflect political divisions and opposition to foreign interference in Niger. As the country celebrates its independence, it remains to be seen how this situation will evolve and what the consequences will be for the political future of the country