Niger‘s Military Council on Friday condemned what it termed as France’s “blatant additional interference,” following remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday. Macron had expressed his support for ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.
In a statement aired on national television, Colonel Amadou Abdel Rahman, the spokesperson for the Military Council, said, “The government of the Republic of Niger observed with displeasure the statements made by the President of the French Republic on Monday, August 28, 2023.” He emphasized that these comments represent “blatant additional interference in Niger’s internal affairs.”
Earlier, Macron had called on regional countries to “follow a responsible policy,” reminding them that France supports “the diplomatic and military work” of ECOWAS, which has been threatening military intervention to restore constitutional order in Niger and free the detained President Bazoum.
Macron had also lauded Bazoum, who was toppled on July 26 and has yet to resign, describing him as an “honest, democratically elected, and courageous man.”
In response, Abdel Rahman stated that “Macron’s statements and his relentless efforts in favor of invading Niger aim to perpetuate the new colonial project on the people of Niger who merely seek self-determination.” He further confirmed that the disagreement with France “does not affect the relationship between our two peoples or individuals but concerns the French military presence in Niger.”
Protests against French Military
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Niamey on Friday near military base housing French troops, demanding their departure. The protests were called by Movement “UM62,” a coalition comprising civil society organizations opposed to French military presence in Niger.
Similar protests have been organized since the July 26 coup, and they are scheduled to continue through Sunday. Falma Taya, an official in Movement “UM62,” told the crowd, “France must leave, and it will leave because it is not in its country in Niger.” Ibrahim Abdu, a member of the “Committee to Support the Military,” added, “We will stay here as long as necessary until the last French soldier leaves.”
Military Agreements Canceled
The Military Council announced in early August the cancellation of several military agreements with France, the former colonial power.
These agreements particularly concern the positioning of the French battalion engaged in combating terrorism and extremist groups. France has about 1,500 soldiers deployed, mainly assisting in counter-terrorism operations against jihadist groups in Niger.
Last week, the military authorities gave the French ambassador, Sylvain Itté, 48 hours to leave the country. However, France refused the request, maintaining that it considers the ousted Bazoum’s government as the legitimate authority.
The political and military dynamics in Niger have been under intense scrutiny following the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, 2023. France has been a key player in the region, traditionally backing ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) and offering military support.
