On national television, a group of soldiers announced the removal of Niger’s President, Mohamed Bazoum, effectively seizing control of the West African nation. As we unpack this startling news, here’s what you need to know.
The Coup d’État
A group of soldiers appeared on state TV, announcing that President Bazoum had been removed from power, and they had taken control. They imposed a nationwide curfew from 7 pm to 5 am, with the country’s borders closed until further notice.
Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane, speaking on behalf of the group, said, > “We, the defence and security forces… have decided to put an end to the regime” of President Bazoum.”
Their swift actions had earlier seen them blockade the presidential palace in the capital, Niamey. According to sources from President Bazoum’s office, a contingent of the presidential guard had been trying to detain Bazoum inside the residence.
International Response
Leaders around the world have expressed shock and consternation at the news. The West African ECOWAS group of countries, chaired by Nigeria, issued a statement, which read:
“ECOWAS condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempt to seize power by force and calls on the coup plotters to free the democratically elected President of the Republic immediately and without any condition.”
Germany’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman also spoke about the coup, expressing concern about the unclear situation in Niger. The United States condemned the developments, calling for Bazoum’s immediate release.
Niger’s Struggle with Violence
Niger, a Western ally in the fight against terror, has been struggling with violence near the capital. Coups are common in the Sahel region, with neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso also experiencing military seizures of power since 2020.
In Niger itself, a failed coup attempt in 2021 sought to stop Bazoum from taking office. All three countries are grappling with an Islamist uprising in their shared border area, with the fighting not far from Niger’s capital, Niamey.
Stay updated with the evolving situation and more Africa news at mandynews.com.
FAQ
1. Who is President Mohamed Bazoum?
Mohamed Bazoum is a Nigerian politician who was serving as the President of Niger before the recent coup. He has been a key figure in Nigerien politics for several decades.
2. What was the international response to the coup?
The international community, including ECOWAS, Germany, and the United States, has largely condemned the coup. There are widespread calls for the immediate and unconditional release of President Bazoum.
3. What is the current situation in Niger following the coup?
The situation remains fluid. A group of soldiers has declared they are in control, with a nationwide curfew imposed and the country’s borders closed.
4. Who announced the coup?
Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane, flanked by other soldiers, made the announcement of the coup on state television.
5. What is the status of the curfew and border closure?
The curfew is in place from 7 pm to 5 am, and the borders are closed until further notice. The situation may change rapidly.
6. What is the historical context of coups in Niger and the Sahel region?
Niger and the Sahel region have a history of instability, with numerous coups occurring over the past decades. This includes a failed coup attempt in Niger in 2021.
7. What will happen next in Niger?
The situation is unpredictable. It will depend on several factors, including the military’s actions, international response, and internal political developments.
8. How did the coup affect daily life in Niger?
Information on the ground is still emerging. However, the imposed curfew and border closures are likely to impact daily life significantly.
9. What is the status of the fight against Islamist uprising in Niger?
Niger, along with neighboring countries, has been battling an Islamist uprising. The impact of the coup on this fight is yet to be seen.
10. What is the potential impact of this coup on the international community?
The coup could potentially destabilize the region further, affecting international security, economic interests, and humanitarian efforts.
