The leader of Niger’s ruling military council, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has sternly warned that any attack on the country “won’t be a walk in the park for those involved”. He assured that the transitional phase to civilian rule would not exceed three years.
In a televised speech, General Tiani emphasised, “Our ambition is not to seize power indefinitely,” reiterating that the power transition will be “completed within three years.” However, he cautioned, “If an assault is launched against us, it won’t be the leisurely stroll some might perceive it to be.”
Furthermore, he mentioned, “ECOWAS is gearing up to attack Niger by forming an occupation army in collaboration with a foreign military,” without specifying the foreign nation involved.
His warning came as a delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) arrived in Niamey for last-ditch diplomatic efforts before making a decision on potential military intervention.
The ECOWAS delegation met with President Mohamed Bazoum, who was overthrown by the military on July 26, following the organization’s announcement of its readiness for a military intervention to restore constitutional order. ECOWAS military leaders also convened this week to finalize potential military action plans to reinstate Bazoum, should ongoing negotiations with the coup leaders fail.
In his 12-minute address, Tiani strongly criticized what he termed as “illegal” and “inhumane” sanctions imposed by ECOWAS on Niger since the military takeover. He also announced a 30-day period for a “national dialogue” to establish “concrete proposals” for laying the foundation of a “new constitutional life”.
In another development, a new American ambassador arrived in Niamey to bolster diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the political crisis, as confirmed by a US State Department statement on Saturday.
Ambassador Kathleen FitzGibbon will not formally present her credentials to the new authorities. The statement explained her arrival “does not signify a shift in U.S. policy”, but “responds to the need for experienced personnel in these challenging times” in the country. Her mission will include “advocating for a diplomatic solution that preserves Niger’s constitutional order and the immediate release of President (Mohamed) Bazoum, his family, and all unlawfully detained individuals”, according to the same source.
Despite non-essential embassy staff departing in early August due to the coup-induced crisis, FitzGibbon, possessing extensive expertise in West African affairs, has chosen to remain in Niamey.
