Niger celebrates its national holiday today, marking the 63rd anniversary of its independence. However, unlike previous years, there will be no military parade to mark the occasion. Indeed, the country is currently governed by a military junta following a coup led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani.
This morning, in Niamey, hundreds of demonstrators gathered to express their support for the military putschists. The rally was held peacefully, with speeches given by members of civil society, including those from the M62 coalition, known for its opposition to the French military presence.
The demonstrators waved clothes and flags in the colors of Niger, as well as portraits of General Tchiani. Many slogans were chanted against the presence of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the French military intervention in Niger.
Also, the demonstration also drew attention to the situation in other parts of the country. In Agadez, hundreds of people also gathered in support of the junta. This is a first in this emblematic city in the center of the country, which had so far remained neutral in the crisis.
However, despite these rallies of support, the situation remains tense. ECOWAS has given the putschists a one-week ultimatum to surrender their arms. In addition, economic sanctions have been imposed by the international community, in particular by ECOWAS, which particularly affects the economic capital of the country, Maradi.
It is important to underline that this situation in Niger will continue to evolve and cause the concern of the international community. It remains to be seen how the military junta will handle the political, economic and security challenges facing the country. Niger is currently at a turning point and the world is watching developments closely