The news in Niger: a new government formed by the military junta
In a tumultuous political context, Niger is facing major changes with the formation of a new government led by Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine. Following the coup two weeks ago, the military junta took power and appointed twenty ministers, including four women, to lead the country.
One of the peculiarities of this new government is the taking over of the sovereign ministries by the military and the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Fatherland (CNSP). Among these, we find the Ministry of Defense, entrusted to General Salifou Mody, vice-president of the CNSP. It is also interesting to note that the ruling party, the PNDS, has disappeared, giving way to other political forces such as Hama Hamadou’s Moden Fa Lumana, which obtains a “superministry” bringing together the sectors of oil, mining and energy.
This new government also brings some positive changes, with personalities recognized for their expertise in key areas. Professor Mahamadou Saidou, appointed Minister of Health, is a respected university rector, while Alio Daouda, former president of the Court of Appeal, becomes Minister of Justice.
However, the question of this government’s room for maneuver arises, while it is under the control of the military junta and the country is facing international sanctions. Despite these challenges, the members of the government show their will to progress and to work for the development of Niger.
This new government therefore marks a turning point in the political history of Niger, with a composition that reflects the new dynamics and current balances of power. It remains to be seen how this new team will face the challenges that await it and how it will be able to meet the expectations of Nigeriens in a context of political transition