The delegation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) recently made a shortened visit to Niger with the aim of obtaining a return to constitutional order. However, the members of the delegation left without even leaving the airport, a sign of the failure of this mediation mission.
Led by Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, the delegation included high-profile figures such as former Nigerian Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar and the Sultan of Sokoto. Their goal was to engage with the ruling military junta and persuade their leader, General Tiani, as well as ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, to restore dissolved democratic institutions and return to constitutional order.
Unfortunately, the planned meetings with the junta and Bazoum were canceled, thus cutting the delegation’s visit short. Niger’s junta also adopted a harsher tone, rejecting ECOWAS decisions and announcing that it would retaliate against any aggression by the sub-regional organization.
In this delicate situation, Bazoum chose to express himself through a column published in the Washington Post. Entitled “I write this as a hostage”, the Nigerien president challenges the arguments put forward by the military to justify their coup d’état. He maintains that the security situation has not worsened since his election and highlights his economic achievements, attributing much of their success to partnerships with foreign countries, notably the United States.
Bazoum also emphasizes the importance of support from the international community, particularly the United States, to restore constitutional order in Niger. He warns of the disastrous consequences that the success of the coup could have, not only for his country, but also for the entire Sahel region. He evokes the growing threat from Russia, the Wagner group and jihadist groups, affirming that Niger is the last bastion of respect for human rights in this part of Africa.
This tense political situation in Niger once again highlights the challenges faced by many African countries in their quest for stability and democracy. The peaceful resolution of conflicts and respect for democratic institutions are crucial issues to ensure the development and well-being of the region’s populations.
Read also: Niger: the junta denounces military agreements with France and will respond to “any aggression” by ECOWAS