The article that I propose to you today deals with an important announcement by General Tiani, leader of the junta that overthrew President Bazoum in Niger. In a speech broadcast on television, General Tiani declared the establishment of an “inclusive national dialogue” in the next 30 days, as well as a political transition that will not exceed three years.
This announcement comes as ECOWAS chiefs of staff are preparing for a possible military intervention in Niger. General Tiani expressed his opposition to this intervention, saying that neither his government nor the people of Niger want war. He however warned that if an aggression were to take place, the Nigerien defense forces would not back down and would be supported by other countries in the region.
The junta leader also stressed that his ambition was not to confiscate power, but rather to lay the foundations of a new constitutional life for the country. He therefore called on all the vital forces of the nation to participate in this inclusive national dialogue, with the aim of formulating concrete proposals for a successful political transition.
This announcement by General Tiani shows his desire to turn the page on the mandate of the overthrown President Bazoum. By proposing a national dialogue and limiting the duration of the transition, the head of the junta is trying to reassure his supporters while showing his willingness to make concessions. He also seeks to mobilize international support by denouncing the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS, which he considers illegal and inhumane.
This political development in Niger raises both hope and concern. While some see the national dialogue as an opportunity to find peaceful solutions to the challenges facing the country, others fear that the political transition will not be truly democratic and will only result in autocratic regime change.
In the coming months, it will be important to follow closely the evolution of the political situation in Niger and to see how this inclusive national dialogue will unfold