A regional bloc of 15 West African nations, known as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), had set a deadline for the military coup leaders in Niger to reinstate the country’s democratically elected president by Sunday. However, on Monday, ECOWAS announced that it would convene on Thursday to discuss the political situation as the coup leaders had taken action by closing Niger’s airspace and rejecting the ultimatum. The coup leaders claimed that they were responding to the threat of intervention from a neighboring country.
Sources close to the ousted president have revealed that he and his family are effectively being held hostage under house arrest, devoid of basic amenities and communication. Despite the difficult circumstances, there is optimism that the president will eventually resume his position.
ECOWAS’s strict stance and ultimatum were likely influenced by pressure from Western allies, such as the U.S. and France. The new chairman of ECOWAS, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, is determined to protect member states and prevent any coup attempts within the region.
The coup in Niger marks the seventh in just three years in this region, which has become known as Africa’s “coup belt.” Several West African countries have declared their support and willingness to send troops, while others, like Burkina Faso and Mali, have warned that intervention in Niger would be seen as a declaration of war against them.
Amidst the crisis, Algeria, which shares a border with Niger, has cautioned against a military solution. The coup in Niger was reportedly driven by concerns over security and the country’s economic situation, but there are also indications that it was influenced by internal power struggles within the junta.
The junta in Niger has held discussions with counterparts in Burkina Faso and Mali, both of which have received support from Russia’s mercenary group, Wagner. There are concerns that if ECOWAS proceeds with military intervention, Wagner forces may become involved, exacerbating the situation.
Notably, Niger plays a crucial role in the United States’ counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel region of northern Africa. The U.S. has military personnel stationed in Niger and has been training local forces to combat extremist groups. While the U.S. has stated that it does not intend to withdraw its troops, it is closely monitoring the situation.
ECOWAS’s economic sanctions against Niger are already having a significant impact on a country that is already impoverished and grappling with food insecurity and the effects of climate change.
In conclusion, the situation in Niger remains tense as ECOWAS prepares to discuss the political crisis. The region’s history of coups and the involvement of external actors further complicate the situation. As the international community watches closely, the fate of Niger’s democratically elected president hangs in the balance.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
