In a recent development, the Military Council that assumed power in Niger has issued a demand for the United Nations (UN) Mission Coordinator, Louise Aubin, to leave the country within a 72-hour timeframe, according to a memorandum from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs seen by Reuters today, Wednesday.
The memorandum, dated October 10th, accuses the United Nations of engaging in “malicious maneuvers” allegedly instigated by France to hinder Niger’s full participation in the United Nations General Assembly last month, along with other international meetings.
It’s worth noting that the Military Council, which seized power in Niger in July, had previously expelled French forces and the French Ambassador from the country.
This move marks an escalation in diplomatic tensions, highlighting the strains between the military leadership in Niger and the international diplomatic community, particularly the United Nations and France.
The demand for the UN Mission Coordinator’s departure adds to the complexity of the political landscape in Niger, which has witnessed significant changes since the military takeover earlier this year.
