Devendra Kumar
Niger’s president, Mohamed Bazoum, has said that democracy will prevail, despite being detained by mutinous soldiers who announced they had seized power in the West African country. The development comes amid a deteriorating security situation and economic instability in the country. Many people in the capital city of Niamey went about their usual business, while it remained unclear who was in control of the country and which side the majority might support. The army command’s account tweeted a statement declaring support for the coup, claiming it was necessary to avoid a “murderous confrontation” that could lead to a “bloodbath”, although it was unclear if the statement was genuine.
President Bazoum, who was elected in 2021, appears to have the backing of several political parties, including the Foreign Minister Hassoumi Massoudou, who called on “all Nigerien democratic patriots to stand up as one to say no to this factious action”. The Economic Community of West African States regional grouping sent Benin president Patrice Talon to lead mediation efforts. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also expressed his full support and solidarity to the Nigerien President.
The situation has raised concerns that Niger could turn away from the West, following the lead of its neighbor Mali, which turned to Russian mercenary group Wagner after turning away from former colonial power France. Several hundred people gathered in Niamey and chanted support for Wagner, waving Russian flags. Analysts have warned that if President Bazoum resigns, Niger could be the next target for Wagner’s expansion.
The West has poured aid into Niger, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited in March, seeking to strengthen ties. American, French, and Italian troops train the country’s soldiers, while France conducts joint operations. President Bazoum has been a key ally in the West’s efforts to battle jihadists linked to al Qaida and the Islamic State group in the Sahel region.
The coup has sparked concerns about the future of Niger’s security and its relationship with the West. President Blinken condemned the mutiny, saying that he “made clear that we strongly support him as the democratically elected president of the country”. He repeated the US condemnation of the mutiny and said his team was in close contact with officials in France and Africa. The situation is still unfolding, with many questions remaining about who is in control and what the future holds for Niger.