In a significant development, a Nigerien court has ordered the expulsion of French Ambassador Sylvain Itte, acting upon a petition from the country’s post-coup authorities. The Nigerien Foreign Ministry has confirmed that Ambassador Itte’s diplomatic immunity has been revoked, and the police have been instructed to expel him.
According to reports, the Nigerien police have increased their presence outside the French embassy following the court’s order.
The authorities filed a petition on Friday, stating that Ambassador Itte’s diplomatic card and visa were canceled because he had been declared persona non grata and did not leave the country within the stipulated 48 hours, making his continued stay in Niger illegal.
The document further mentioned that the French diplomat had been stripped of all diplomatic privileges and immunities under the Vienna Convention.
The coup took place on July 26, led by Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, resulting in the ousting and detention of ex-President Mohamed Bazoum. France swiftly condemned the coup and reiterated its support for the “legitimate government” of Niger.
Following the coup, the leaders imposed various measures, including halting gold and uranium exports to France, blocking French media, and denouncing several military pacts with Paris. In mid-August, they demanded the withdrawal of French forces from Niger by early September.
Mass rallies have been held in Niger since the coup, with protestors calling for the complete withdrawal of French troops from the country. These developments underscore the complex diplomatic and political dynamics in the region as both countries navigate their relationships amidst significant changes in leadership and policy.
