European Union announced on Saturday the cessation of economic aid and the suspension of security cooperation with Niger, condemning attempts to unconstitutionally change the legitimate authority in the country.
Josep Borrell, the European Union’s Commissioner for Foreign Policy, said in a statement that “the unacceptable assault on the integrity of Niger’s republican institutions will not continue without consequences for the partnership and cooperation between the European Union and Niger in all different aspects.”
He added, “In this regard, in addition to the immediate suspension of budgetary support, all forms of cooperation in the security field are being suspended indefinitely and with immediate effect.” He emphasized that he does not recognize the military leaders who have appointed themselves in Niger, affirming that Mohamed Bazoum remains the president.
The African Peace and Security Council denounced “the coup in Niger” earlier today, Saturday, demanding that the military leaders return to their barracks within a period of 15 days.
In a statement, the African Peace and Security Council expressed its “deep concern over the worrying return of military coups that undermine democracy and security and peace and stability on the continent,” stressing its “absolute intolerance of unconstitutional changes in governments on the African continent.”
The Council demanded that the “military immediately and unconditionally return to their barracks and restore the legitimate authority within a maximum period of 15 days from the date of adopting the Council’s statement.” It emphasized the necessity of immediately and unconditionally releasing President Bazoum and other political detainees and respecting their rights.
The statement warned that the African Peace and Security Council will take all necessary measures, including punitive measures against the perpetrators of violations.
Earlier, military officials in the Niger army announced the isolation of the country’s president, Mohamed Bazoum, the closure of borders, and the imposition of a curfew.
The Niger army announced in a statement its “support for the coup” and warned that “any foreign military intervention by any party will have serious consequences that cannot be controlled, leading to chaos in the country.”
