The National Committee of the Rally for Development (CNRD) in Guinea recently expressed its support for the junta in power in Niger, following the coup d’état that occurred on July 26. This position provoked various reactions within the country.
In a press release addressed to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the CNRD, which has ruled Guinea since September 2021, claims to support the new Nigerien authorities, describing their takeover as a “responsibility”. This statement was sometimes approved, sometimes criticized.
Supporters of the Guinean junta welcome this position, considering that it strengthens the country’s sovereignty. Some even see this declaration as proof of the neutrality of Guinea’s foreign policy based on pan-Africanism. They also believe that any ECOWAS intervention in Niger would be perceived as an act of war or a provocation.
However, other voices are being raised to contest the legitimacy of the CNRD to engage Guinea in this matter. Some members of political parties such as the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG) denounce this position and believe that the CNRD should not engage in conflicts with regional institutions, especially since it has subscribes to a timetable for returning to constitutional order in 24 months. According to them, this demonstrates a desire to confiscate power and not respect deadlines for a return to normal.
Some go even further by accusing the leaders of Guinea, Niger and certain countries in the region of wanting to create a union within ECOWAS, which would constitute a dangerous precedent for democracy and the rule of law.
It is important to note that this CNRD position was signed by the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, General Ibrahima Sory Bangoura.
Guinea’s position regarding the coup d’état in Niger continues to give rise to debates and questions within the country. Future developments in the situation will allow us to learn more about the consequences of this CNRD position.