On 31 July, the governments of Burkina Faso and Mali issued a joint warning to those contemplating military intervention in Niger. Both African nations declared that such an action would be interpreted as a declaration of war against them.
Regional Stability Concerns
In response to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) ultimatum to the coup plotters in Niger, the transitional authorities of Burkina Faso and Mali expressed concern about the potential destabilizing effects that a military intervention in Niamey could have on the entire region.
Possible Self-Defense Measures
Both nations warned of potential withdrawal from the African bloc. They could adopt “self-defense measures in support of Niger” if there’s a military intervention.
Criticism of ECOWAS
Burkina Faso and Mali expressed surprise and discontent. in the first instance they perceive an imbalance in the reaction of some West African leaders to a sovereign country. In this sense, they questioned the “speed and adventurous attitude” of these leaders, while pointing out the “inaction, indifference and passive complicity” of ECOWAS in the situation.
Demand for the Return to Power of the Deposed President
On 30 July, ECOWAS demanded that the Niger Armed Forces reinstate deposed President Mohamed Bazoum. They threatened to apply “all kinds of measures” if the forces do not comply with this request.
The Motives behind the Coup d’Etat
El 26 de julio, el Consejo Nacional para la Salvación de la Patria (CNSP), anunció la destitución del presidente Bazoum. El CNSP está integrado por funcionarios de las fuerzas de seguridad y defensa de Níger. It was argued that this action was due to the “continued deterioration of the security situation” and “poor economic and social governance”.
Measures taken by the CNSP
After the coup d’état, Major Colonel Amadou Abdrahmane, spokesman for the military junta, announced the suspension of the institutions of power, the closure of borders and the establishment of a curfew throughout the national territory from 22:00 to 05:00 local time, until further notice.
International Commitments and Call for Non-Interference
The new authorities in Niger affirmed their commitment to the country’s international agreements and asked foreign partners to respect their ability to manage state affairs through the Defence and Security Forces.
Rebel General Tchiani and the CNSP at the Front
On 28 July, rebel General Tchiani assumed leadership of the CNSP, taking over functions and powers as head of state and Niger’s representative at the international level.
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